Legal Complaint Filed Against Hardik Pandya Over T20 Word Cup Victory Celebrations

New Delhi, March 12, 2026 – Indian star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has found himself at the center of a legal controversy following India’s historic 2026 T20 World Cup victory. A formal complaint has been filed against the cricketer, alleging that he disrespected the Indian National Flag during his post-match celebrations with girlfriend Mahieka Sharma at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

The complaint was lodged by Pune-based advocate Wajid Khan at the Shivaji Nagar Police Station. The legal move follows the viral spread of videos showing Pandya’s exuberant celebrations after India defeated New Zealand to clinch their third T20 World Cup title.

Details of the Allegations

According to the complainant, Pandya’s conduct during the victory lap and subsequent celebrations on the podium violated the sanctity of the national tricolor. The primary points of the complaint include:

• Misuse of the Flag: The advocate alleged that Pandya had the national flag tied to his back and draped over his shoulders while dancing and running across the field.
• Inappropriate Conduct: The complaint highlights a specific moment where Pandya and Mahieka Sharma were seen lying on the victory stage while the cricketer was still wearing the national flag.
• Violation of the Flag Code: Advocate Wajid Khan argued that these actions constitute an offense under Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which prohibits the use of the flag as a costume or its handling in a way that lowers its dignity.

“Hardik Pandya was so lost in the celebration of his victory that he was lying with his girlfriend while wearing the national flag. I believe it is an insult to the national flag,” Khan told reporters after filing the application.

Legal Implications

Under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, any individual found guilty of disrespecting or “bringing into contempt” the Indian National Flag in a public place can face:

1. Imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years.
2. A fine, or both.

While the police have accepted the complaint, they have noted that the incident occurred in Ahmedabad. However, the complainant argued that because the national flag represents the entire country, the jurisdiction for such a case should not be limited to the site of the incident.

Social Media Divide

The incident has sparked a heated debate online. While many fans have defended the all-rounder, calling the act a “harmless, emotional celebration” after an intense tournament, others have expressed disappointment.

The controversy is further fueled by the public appearance of Mahieka Sharma, whom Pandya recently confirmed he is dating. The couple’s PDA (Public Display of Affection) on the field has drawn criticism from some sections of social media users who suggested that “decorum should have been maintained” during a national moment of pride.

India’s Historic Win

Despite the legal shadow, the 2026 T20 World Cup remains a landmark for Indian cricket. By defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final, India became the:

• First team to win the T20 World Cup three times.
• First host nation to win the trophy on home soil.
• First team to successfully defend the title (following their 2024 win).

Hardik Pandya was a vital architect of this win, contributing significantly with both bat and ball throughout the tournament.