In a move seen by many as a masterstroke by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to silence the Opposition on issues like deteriorating law and order and attack on the Lokayukta, the state government unveiled the new state flag on Thursday.

This was proposed and designed by the 9-member committee which was constituted in 2017. Siddaramaiah met a delegation of pro-Kannada activists who initially were not happy with the change in the design but have now given their nod.

Sa Ra Govindu, President, Karnataka Film Chambers of Commerce was elated with the decision taken by the CM.

He said, "We are all happy with the CM's decision and so are the citizens of Karnataka."

The new flag is a tricolour - yellow, white and red.

It also sports the 'ganda bherunda' or the two headed eagle in the middle. The flag committee at the meeting explained the meaning of the colours to the activists and writers.

Yellow stands for forgiveness, white for peace and red for bravery along with the state emblem.

On the white, there is the Sarnath lion and below it is a shield with the ganda bherunda. On either sides are two lion-elephants - a mythological 8-legged creature possessing the strength of lions and elephants combined.

The committee decided not to use the unofficial yellow and red flag that has been in vogue since the 1960s. It was Kannada writer and activists MA Ramamurthy who designed the first flag for a political party. Since then it has been used by various pro-Kannada organisations as a symbol of cultural pride.

The committee has informed the CM that there is no provision in the Constitution that disallows states from having their own flags.

The CM while addressing the media said, "Now that there are no hurdles, the recommendation will be sent to the Government of India".

Taking a dig at the BJP which has decided to stay mum on the issue, he added, "I am hoping that the BJP will tell the Centre to get this work done quickly with all the required approvals."

The Congress has understood that it would be tough for the BJP to oppose such a move that is seen as Kannada pride by many. Along with the fight against Hindi imposition, this new flag has put the BJP in a quandary.

The BJP in the state has for now decided to stay away from commenting on the Karnataka flag.

Last year, when the committee was set up, many leaders lambasted the CM saying the move is against the integrity of the country. They stated that the BJP always fought for one nation, one flag.

But after receiving flak from the citizens of the state then, this time they have decided to not say anything lest they offend either their party high command or the people of the state.

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