After becoming the world champion, Hardik Pandya got into trouble, accused of 'insulting' the tricolor.

Amid the celebratory atmosphere following the 2026 T20 World Cup title win, Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya has found himself embroiled in a new controversy. A Pune lawyer has accused the star Indian all-rounder of disrespecting the Indian flag during his celebrations following the T20 World Cup win. A police complaint has been filed in this matter.

Hardik Pandya accused of disrespecting the Indian flag

While the entire country is praising Hardik Pandya's impressive performance (Hardik Pandya National Flag Controversy), he has been accused of disrespecting the national flag in Pune. Advocate Wajid Khan has filed an application at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Pune, demanding the registration of an FIR against Hardik Pandya.

The lawyer alleges that Pandya wrapped the Indian flag around his body while celebrating on the field after India's historic victory, which is against the dignity of the national flag.

According to Wajid Khan, Hardik Pandya was celebrating with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma after the T20 World Cup victory. At that time, the national flag was tied to his back, and he was seen dancing in that position and lying on the stage. It is every citizen's duty to respect the dignity of the national flag.

In his complaint, the lawyer cited Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, stating that the national flag should not be insulted under any circumstances.

He stated that when he went to the Shivaji Nagar police station to file a complaint, the police initially stated that the incident occurred in Ahmedabad. However, the lawyer argued that the national flag is a symbol of the entire nation, and therefore, a complaint can be filed at any police station in the country. Later, the police accepted his complaint and gave him a copy.

Pandya is seen celebrating with Mahieka

Several videos went viral on social media showing Hardik Pandya dancing with his girlfriend, Mahieka Sharma, taking photos with the trophy, and sharing emotional moments. In one video, the two were even seen lying on the stage while players and staff celebrated nearby.

The matter is now with the police. If an investigation is initiated based on the complaint, the police may examine the video and other evidence. It remains to be seen what further legal action is taken in this case.

Hardik's performance in the tournament

Throughout the tournament, Hardik scored two crucial half-centuries, including a blistering 52 off just 28 balls against Namibia. His performance earned him a place in the ICC Team of the Tournament 2026. He scored 217 runs in nine matches, including two half-centuries.