Massive misuse of national flag, emblems, symbols in Congress-ruled Karnataka; HC issues fresh ruling

The Karnataka High Court has issued a stern directive to curb the misuse of India's national symbols and emblems, highlighting their importance in representing the country's dignity and sovereignty. 

The decision comes from a bench composed of Chief Justice NV Anjaria and Justice MI Arun, who stressed the significance of these symbols as embodiments of national pride.

“National Symbols and National Emblems represent the pride and honour of our nation and country… The misuse, misprojection, and misstatement of these Symbols, Emblems, and Names have to be prevented resolutely,” the bench observed.

Concerns Over Misuse by Officials

The court noted with concern that even some former legislators and ex-government officials were found to be involved in such misuse. This underscores the urgent requirement for stricter enforcement of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005. The court mandated prompt registration of cases upon identification of misuse.

“It is true and unfortunate that there is tendency amongst the constitutional authorities who are the former authorities no more in the office, the former Members of the Parliament or Ex-Legislators have been misusing the Emblem, Flags, Names, etc, by fixing them in their letter heads and the number plates of the vehicles. This conduct is both unfortunate and depreciable,” the Bench stated.
Directions for Public Awareness

The Karnataka State Government has been instructed to issue a public notice through print and visual media. This communication is intended to prompt the removal of all unauthorised flags, emblems, names, symbols, stickers, seals, and logos within four weeks.

Penalties and Regulations Proposed

Additionally, the court called for the Central and State governments to create regulations that would impose penalties, such as fines or the cancellation of driving licences, for the improper use of national symbols on vehicles.