On January 23, 2004, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark judgment that forever changed the way Indians connect with their most cherished national symbol — the Tiranga. The apex court affirmed that every Indian citizen has the right to fly the national flag with dignity and pride, not just on select days or by select institutions.
Behind this historic victory stood the relentless spirit of Shri Naveen Jindal, a young industrialist, visionary leader, and a deeply committed patriot. The journey began in 1993, when Mr. Jindal hoisted the Indian National Flag atop his factory in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, driven by the belief that the Tiranga belongs to every citizen. Shockingly, he was informed that this act was a violation of the Flag Code of India, 1950, which restricted flag hoisting to certain days and primarily to government offices.
This was not just a legal regulation for Mr. Jindal — it was a challenge to the very spirit of democratic expression. Refusing to accept such a limitation on patriotic freedom, Mr. Jindal approached the Delhi High Court in 1995, asserting that flying the national flag is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) — the right to freedom of speech and expression. The court ruled in his favor, recognizing that the flag is not the privilege of a few but a right of all. However, the government appealed to the Supreme Court, prompting a tenacious legal battle that spanned nearly a decade.
Mr. Jindal remained undeterred. His argument was clear and powerful — the national flag is the embodiment of India’s unity, sovereignty, and the spirit of its people. Denying citizens the right to hoist it was a denial of their voice. On January 23, 2004, the Supreme Court upheld Mr. Jindal’s stand in a judgment that made history. The court ruled that flying the national flag is indeed a fundamental right of every Indian, a powerful form of personal expression and national pride.
This was more than a legal victory — it was the democratization of a symbol that binds 1.4 billion hearts. In the wake of this momentous decision, Mr. Jindal, along with his wife, Ms. Shallu Jindal, established the Flag Foundation of India, a non-profit dedicated to promoting respect for the Tiranga and rekindling patriotic pride among the people. Through educational campaigns, art, music, and public awareness drives, the foundation has made the national flag a daily emblem of unity, especially for the youth. Today, thanks to Mr. Naveen Jindal’s unwavering courage and conviction, every Indian can proudly fly the Tiranga every day of the year. This legal crusade and its triumph have etched Mr. Jindal’s name in the annals of Indian history. His vision ensured that the flag no longer rests only in government buildings, but in the hearts and homes of the people. The Supreme Court’s verdict on the Tiranga is not just a ruling — it is a resounding declaration of what it means to be Indian. A symbol reclaimed. A right restored. A nation inspired.
The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) conferred its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award on Mr. Naveen Jindal, honoring his exceptional contributions to industry, education, philanthropy, and public service. An MBA graduate from UT Dallas (1992), Mr. Jindal’s journey from a passionate student to a transformational leader is nothing short of inspiring. The award celebrates his relentless pursuit of excellence and global impact across diverse sectors. As Chairman of Jindal Steel, he has steered the company into a global powerhouse in steel, mining, and power, advancing India’s vision of self-reliance and economic growth. Under his leadership, Jindal Steel was ranked the highest global wealth creator (2005–2009) by Boston Consulting Group. In 2009, Mr. Jindal founded O.P. Jindal Global University, now among India’s top private institutions. His vision of providing world-class education continues to shape future leaders. Through the Naveen Jindal Foundation, he has impacted thousands of lives via initiatives in education, healthcare, and social empowerment, especially for the underprivileged. A three-time Member of Parliament from Kurukshetra, he has championed key legislations in education, food security, and women’s empowerment, leaving a significant imprint on public policy. A proud patriot, Mr. Jindal is also the Founder of the Flag Foundation of India. His legal battle led to the historic 2004 Supreme Court verdict affirming every citizen’s right to fly the Indian flag. Accepting the award, Mr. Jindal said, “This honor reflects the efforts of everyone who’s been part of my journey. It motivates me to keep striving for a better, stronger society.” Mr. Naveen Jindal’s life story is a beacon of vision, service, and leadership—and this award cements his legacy as a changemaker who continues to inspire generations.
In a landmark move in July 2004, Mr. Naveen Jindal, Member of Parliament from Kurukshetra, spearheaded the ban on smoking within the Indian Parliament—setting a powerful precedent for public health and institutional accountability. Disturbed by the health hazards of smoking and the need for a cleaner, healthier workspace, Mr. Jindal launched a vigorous campaign to make Parliament a smoke-free zone. He emphasized the symbolic importance of lawmakers setting the standard for the rest of the nation, especially in safeguarding public health. Through persistent advocacy and strategic dialogue with fellow MPs, he brought attention to the dangers of passive smoking and the responsibility of national leaders to lead by example. His mission wasn't just about banning cigarettes—it was about championing wellness in India's highest decision-making body. Mr. Jindal’s efforts culminated in the official smoking ban in Parliament, a move that has since inspired similar action across other public institutions. This trailblazing initiative stands as a testament to Mr. Naveen Jindal’s unwavering commitment to public welfare, proving that impactful change begins with bold leadership.