Rohit Sharma's profile picture controversy

Rohit Sharma, the celebrated captain of the Indian cricket team, recently found himself at the center of a social media storm. On July 8, 2024, Sharma updated his profile picture on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. The image, intended to celebrate India’s recent T20 World Cup victory, depicted Sharma planting the Indian flag at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.While the gesture was meant to symbolize national pride and triumph, it quickly sparked controversy among netizens.
Take a look at the post here:

The backlash was swift and intense. Many fans accused Sharma of disrespecting the Indian flag, as the image showed the tricolor touching the ground. This act is considered a violation of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which states, “The flag shall not be allowed intentionally to touch the ground or the floor or trail in water.” The legal stipulation is well-known in India, where the national flag is held in deep reverence.
Social media platforms were flooded with criticism. Users expressed their disappointment and anger, with some calling for Sharma to remove the picture and issue an apology. Comparisons were drawn between Sharma and former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is known for his impeccable conduct both on and off the field. Fans highlighted that Dhoni never allowed such lapses, further fueling the criticism against Sharma.
One user tweeted, “Rohit Sharma should know better! Disrespecting the flag is unacceptable. #ShameOnRohit”. Another comment read, “This is not what we expect from our captain. Apologize and remove the picture, Rohit!”.
In response to the mounting criticism, Rohit Sharma released a video through the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He explained his emotional connection to the Kensington Oval, the venue of India’s T20 World Cup victory. “I was feeling the moment when I went to the pitch because that pitch gave us this. We played on that particular pitch and we won the game,” Sharma said. He made it clear that his goal was to appreciate the location where India’s hopes came true, not to disparage the flag.
Even after Sharma clarified the situation, the debate lingered. Legal professionals offered their opinions, debating the consequences of the 1971 Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. Sharma’s answer did not convince some supporters, who maintained that he should have been more aware of the legalities and significance surrounding the national flag as a public figure and icon.
The incident has cast a shadow over what has otherwise been a period of celebration for Rohit Sharma and the Indian cricket team. On June 29, 2024, India clinched the T20 World Cup title in Barbados, defeating South Africa by seven runs in a thrilling final. This victory marked India’s first ICC trophy in 17 years and was a significant achievement for Sharma, who led the team with a fearless batting approach and commendable leadership.

The Indian cricket team’s latest achievement has been widely celebrated across the nation. The victory in the T20 World Cup has brought immense joy to cricket fans and has been hailed as evidence of the team’s hard work and dedication. The triumph has also been a personal milestone for Sharma, who has been at the forefront of India’s cricketing success in recent years.