Discipline can't be forced on citizens: Parasaran on National Anthem row

New Delhi: Senior Advocate of Supreme Court, Mohan Parasaran on Thursday said discipline cannot be forced on citizens.

Reacting to Supreme Court's decision over national anthem, Parasaran said, "You cannot force discipline on citizens. If they disrespect, actions can be taken."

Parasaran's reaction came after the Supreme Court on Monday refused to modify its earlier order in connection with playing of National Anthem in movie theaters.

"These are not at all essential within the purvey of the court and national anthem has to be respected in the highest manner," he added.

The court also observed that not singing National Anthem at the movie theatres was not a sign of anti-nationalism.

The court, on November 30, 2016, had made it mandatory for movie halls to play the National Anthem before the screening of movies.

It had later clarified that movie watchers would not be obliged to stand for the anthem if it is part of the film that is being screened.

There have since been numerous incidents where people have been harassed at movie halls for not standing during the Anthem.

The move has since attracted controversy, with arguments pitched online - both in favour of and against the move.