Udupi DC's Saffron Flag Waving at Paryaya Event Sparks Political Dispute

During the Paryaya Mahotsava procession in Udupi on January 18, Deputy Commissioner T K Swaroopa waved a saffron flag handed to her by BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna. The Udupi District Congress Committee alleged this violated service rules and secular principles, seeking disciplinary action. Swaroopa and BJP leaders stated her actions were part of official duties and longstanding religious tradition, denying any political intent. The incident has sparked political debate over the flag's symbolism and administrative conduct.