Orissa High Court orders state-level committee, portal to check misuse of national emblem

Orissa High Court has laid strong emphasis on preventing the misuse of the National Emblem and has issued a series of directions in this regard. 

The directions were issued while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to the incorrect and improper use of the national emblem.

To curb such misuse, the High Court has ordered the formation of a committee comprising senior officials from five different departments. The court has also directed that a dedicated portal be set up to receive complaints related to the misuse of the National Emblem.

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As per the court’s directions, any error or improper usage reported must be rectified within six weeks of the complaint being filed. The High Court further warned that failure to correct the violations within the stipulated time would invite appropriate action.

"After hearing the PIL, the court has given the judgment that a state-level committee will be formed, in which there will be five officials from different departments. Any grievances reported must be rectified within six weeks of the complaint being filed. Failure to correct the violations within the stipulated time would invite appropriate action. The court has also directed that a dedicated portal be set up to receive complaints. A helpline number will also be issued, and awareness in this regard will also be created through social media platforms," said Pabitra Kumar Dutta, lawyer of the petitioner.