Video of Indian flag being torn during protest in Texas sparks outrage online

A video purportedly showing a man tearing the Indian national flag during a protest in the US state of Texas has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many users condemning the act as disrespectful and offensive.

According to reports, the incident took place outside Frisco City Hall in Texas during a demonstration reportedly linked to opposition to immigration in the North Dallas region.

In the video, Texas local Clayton Walker is seen tearing the Indian tricolour while a crowd gathered nearby. The video also captured some people allegedly shouting anti-India slogans and applauding during the incident.

The video went viral on X after a user named @ElijahSchaffer posted the video, attracting millions of views and strong reactions from users in India and abroad.

Many social media users condemned the act, describing it as an act of intolerance and disrespect towards a national symbol revered by millions of Indians worldwide.

Several users also pushed back against anti-immigration sentiments expressed during the protest. Some highlighted the contribution of Indian professionals to sectors such as technology, healthcare and education in the United States, noting that many Indians migrate through legal channels, including skilled worker visa programmes.

Others argued that the actions of a few individuals could not undermine India's global standing or the achievements of its diaspora community.

The incident has also reignited the safety concerns and treatment of Indian-origin communities living overseas, particularly amid increasing issues about hate-driven rhetoric and discrimination targeting immigrant groups.

There was no immediate information on whether local authorities had launched an investigation into the incident or whether any complaints had been filed.

The Indian tricolour is regarded as a symbol of national pride and identity, and incidents involving its desecration often trigger strong reactions among Indians both at home and abroad.