Kohima: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a directive to all state governments, Union Territories and central ministries, urging strict compliance with rules governing the display and use of the State Emblem of India.
As per a Nagaland government update, the move follows observations by the High Court of Karnataka, which recently raised concerns over the widespread and unauthorised use of national symbols and emblems at public and private places.
The emblem, depicting three lions from the Lion Capital, with a galloping horse and bull on either side and the Ashoka Chakra in the center, along with the motto “Satyameva Jayate” in Devanagari script, is the official seal of the Government of India.
Its use is regulated by the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, and the Rules notified in 2007 and amended in 2010.
In its latest circular, the MHA has reminded all authorities of earlier advisories issued in 2016, 2019 and February this year, stressing the need for greater awareness and strict enforcement of these provisions.
The Karnataka High Court, in an order dated 4 April, expressed concern over the misuse of national and state emblems on private vehicles and in public spaces. It noted that names and logos of constitutional bodies and commissions were often displayed by individuals and organisations without authorisation. The court underlined that such symbols hold deep significance, representing power, truth and governance, and must not be diluted through misuse.
Authorities have been directed to remove unauthorised flags, emblems, seals and stickers within four weeks and to sensitise officials and implementing agencies to prevent further violations. The ministry has asked government departments to launch awareness campaigns through print and digital media and to take strict action against officials and private individuals found misusing the emblem.
The ministry also highlighted the importance of involving schools and law students in awareness drives, framing penalties under relevant transport laws and providing special training for traffic police to identify and respond to misuse.
The directive has been sent to all Chief Secretaries, Union Territory Administrators and Central Ministries. It has also been forwarded to key constitutional offices, including the President’s Secretariat, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Election Commission and both Houses of Parliament.
The government has stressed the need for immediate and coordinated action to protect the dignity of national symbols and prevent their unauthorised use.