Police in Kerala have registered a case against a Christian pastor and event organisers after a Pakistani flag was displayed during a prayer meeting in Udayamperoor on 8 June 2025, following a complaint by a BJP leader.
The Udayamperoor police, under the Kochi City Police, booked Pastor Deepu Jacob—who also owns the Jesus Generation Auditorium where the event took place—along with the event organiser. The case arises from a complaint filed by BJP Ernakulam district president Sreekuttan after he spotted the Pakistani flag in social media videos of the prayer session.
Organisers had displayed the Pakistani flag among approximately 20 national flags during what they described as intercessory prayers for the welfare of various countries. Pastors from different Protestant churches had gathered for the prayer meeting at the Kandanad venue.
Police have registered charges under Section 196(1)(a) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (Indian Justice Code), which addresses promoting disharmony between different groups on religious or community grounds, and Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act for insulting the Indian national flag.
The complaint also alleged that the Indian flag was placed near a toilet area after the event, an act seen as disrespectful to the national symbol. Police have seized all flags displayed at the event, which will be produced before the court.
Speaking to police, Jacob stated there was no malicious intent behind the display of the Pakistani flag. He explained that the group has held similar prayer sessions using flags from 20 different countries over the past year and a half. “Prayers are held touching the flags of the respective countries so that all countries can attain peace and prosperity,” organisers told police.
Jacob said the Pakistani flag was purchased from China, according to police records. He emphasised that it was simply one among many used during regular intercessory prayer events held over 18 months.
The incident attracted attention after BJP leader Sreekuttan came across footage of the prayer session on social media, prompting his complaint and the subsequent police investigation.
Udayamperoor Police confirmed that a case has been registered and a detailed investigation is underway. The organisers are expected to appear at the police station to provide full statements as part of the probe.
The charges include promoting religious enmity and inciting communal unrest. Police have begun questioning Jacob as they examine the context of the flag display and the alleged disrespect shown to the Indian national flag.
