The Indian Navy announced on Saturday that it would end the colonial legacy of carrying batons with 'immediate effect'. The Navy has now instructed that a ceremonial baton be placed appropriately in the office of the head of the organisation of every unit, which will be handed over within the office as part of a change of command.
In a communication issued by the force, the Indian Navy said, "With the passage of time, carrying of batons by naval personnel has become a norm. The symbolism of authority or power pot heated through the holding of a baton is a colonial legacy that is out of place in a transtormed navy of Amrit Kaal.” In light of this, “Carrying of batons by all personnel including those from the provost be discontinued with immediate effect,” the letter said.
The Navy has now instructed that a ceremonial baton be placed appropriately in the office of the head of the organisation of every unit. The ceremonial handover of the baton may be undertaken within the office as part of a change of command only, the force said.
The Indian Defence forces have taken multiple steps to shed British-era practices. The Indian Navy changed its insignia as well. The new ensign or 'Nishaan' of the Indian Navy was unveiled last year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi where it removed the remnants of the colonial past and reflects the country’s rich maritime heritage, the Navy said in its statement. The new ensign is inspired by the seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji.
