CPI(M) leaders in Kochi hoist Congress flag instead of tricolour on Independence Day

Kochi: In an unusual Independence Day mix-up, a local CPI(M) branch committee in Eloor, Kochi, accidentally hoisted the Congress party’s flag instead of the national flag.

According to party sources, the error occurred when an elderly leader, who is also an office-bearer of the Left party’s Senior Citizens’ Forum, mistook the Congress flag for the tricolour during the celebrations.

Error noticed after hoisting

The incident took place in the presence of several local leaders and members. It was only after the hoisting that a participant pointed out the mistake.

“The Congress flag remained up for hardly 10 minutes before being taken down,” a local leader told PTI, adding that it was immediately taken down.

Photos go viral

Though the flag was quickly removed, photos and videos of the event spread widely on social media, drawing sharp reactions online.

A senior CPI(M) district leader confirmed the mix-up, calling it an honest mistake.

“The leader concerned admitted he had multiple flags with him and accidentally picked the wrong one. Considering his age and the circumstances, no disciplinary action will be taken,” the district leader said.