Fans bring BJP flags to The Oval at WTC finals; Here's how Twitter users responded
The presence of politics in cricket was once again witnessed in a peculiar incident during the World Test Championship final at The Oval in England. A photograph of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) flag being displayed by someone of the Indian fans at the venue circulated on social media, sparking a mixed reaction from the public.
The image attracted various opinions and comments from individuals. Some emphasized the importance of freedom of expression and associated the flag with a sense of nationalism. Conversely, others expressed their view that the BJP does not represent the entirety of India.
One Twitter user stated, "This should not be allowed in the stadium," while another commented, "Wherever you go, you find BJP because people love BJP." Another user expressed concerns that if India were to lose the match, the flag's presence could be considered as bringing bad luck, and therefore called for the immediate cleansing of the stadium.
The identities of the fans who brought the flag to the match, however remained unknown.
Spotted at the Oval: just a reminder, this is India Vs Australia folks! #WTC2023 pic.twitter.com/QMVroHjSbq
— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) June 7, 2023
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Empowering Bengaluru: Hitachi Rail Supports Sanjay Gandhi And St Josephs
Corporate Social Responsibility is often spoken about, but meaningful action is what truly makes a difference. In Bengaluru, Hitachi Rail STS India has demonstrated how responsible corporate engagement can directly support society by strengthening healthcare services and promoting education for students who need support.
As part of its CSR initiatives, the company has contributed ₹66 lakh towards important community causes in the city. The contributions focus on two critical areas that shape the well-being and future of society — healthcare and education.
A significant portion of the contribution, ₹50 lakh, has been donated to Sanjay Gandhi Hospital in Bengaluru. The funds will be used to purchase essential medical equipment that will help the hospital enhance its healthcare services. With growing patient needs and increasing demand for advanced medical facilities, such support plays an important role in strengthening public healthcare infrastructure.
The cheque for this contribution was formally handed over by Mr. Manoj Kumar Krishnappa, Director and Head of Hitachi Rail STS India, to Dr. Madan Ballal, Director of Sanjay Gandhi Hospital. The gesture highlights the company’s commitment to ensuring that hospitals serving large sections of the public have the tools and equipment required to deliver better treatment and care.
Healthcare support, however, was only one part of the company’s broader community effort. Recognising that education remains the foundation of long-term social progress, Hitachi Rail STS India also contributed ₹16 lakh to the Jesuit Education Society in Bengaluru, a unit of St. Joseph’s School and College. The funds will be used to support students who require financial assistance, enabling them to continue their education and access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Manoj Kumar Krishnappa emphasised that the company believes businesses have a responsibility that goes beyond commercial success. According to him, initiatives that strengthen healthcare systems and support the education of underprivileged students help create a stronger and more inclusive society.
Such initiatives reflect a broader philosophy within Hitachi Rail STS India — that corporate growth and social responsibility must move together. By investing in healthcare infrastructure and educational support, the company aims to contribute to lasting improvements in the communities where it operates.
Hitachi Rail STS India is widely recognised as a leading provider of advanced railway signalling and transportation solutions. The company focuses on innovation, safety, and sustainable mobility in the transportation sector. At the same time, through its CSR initiatives, it continues to extend its impact beyond engineering and infrastructure by supporting social development and community welfare.
In a rapidly growing city like Bengaluru, partnerships between institutions and responsible corporate entities can play a crucial role in addressing social challenges. Contributions such as these not only strengthen healthcare facilities and educational access but also set an example of how industry can actively participate in building a healthier and more equitable society.
(Girish Linganna is an award-winning science communicator and a Defence, Aerospace & Geopolitical Analyst. He is the Managing Director of ADD Engineering Components India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany.)
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or position of the publication, its editors, or its management. The publication is not responsible for the accuracy of any information, statements, or opinions presented in this piece.
