New Delhi, Aug. 19 -- National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoongo on Wednesday said Independence Day celebrations, including flag hoisting and singing the national anthem, are not being conducted in Punjab's government schools near the Pakistan border.

Speaking to ANI, Kanoongo said, "In Punjab's government schools near the Pakistan border, Independence Day celebrations, including flag hoisting and singing the national anthem, are not conducted. This omission disproportionately affects children in rural areas, violating their rights as per the Constitution and the Flag Code of India, which mandates such practices in schools."

He added, "The Punjab state government's failure to organize these events is a form of gover...