IMPROPER USE OF STATE EMBLEM OF INDIA
Overview:
- The Union Home Ministry has issued a directive to all State governments to ensure the proper usage and depiction of the State Emblem of India.
- The Ministry has expressed concerns regarding the improper representation and misuse of the emblem, specifically the omission of the motto “Satyamev Jayate” in Devanagari script.
- This message was conveyed through a letter addressed to all Chief Secretaries of the States.
KEY POINTS
- The Importance of the Motto “Satyamev Jayate”:
- The Home Ministry highlighted that the State Emblem of India is incomplete without the inscription of the motto “Satyamev Jayate” in Devanagari script.
- This motto, meaning “Truth Alone Triumphs,” is an integral part of the emblem and must be included wherever the emblem is displayed.
- The omission of this motto is considered a violation of the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, which outlines the regulations for the correct use of the emblem.
- Misuse of the State Emblem:
- The Ministry has noticed that various government agencies, while using the State Emblem on stationery, publications, vehicles, websites, buildings, etc., have been displaying only the profile of the Lion Capital without the accompanying motto.
- Furthermore, these representations of the emblem do not always adhere to the specific design outlined in the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, particularly regarding its dimensions, placement, and detailed elements.
DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE EMBLEM
The State Emblem of India is an adaptation of the Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka. It features:
- 3 lions mounted on an abacus, symbolizing power, courage, and confidence.
- A Dharma Chakra (wheel of law) in the center of the abacus.
- A bull on the right, and a galloping horse on the left, both representing various elements of Indian culture and values.
- The motto “Satyamev Jayate” inscribed in Devanagari script beneath the profile of the lions.
- State emblem, adopted by the Government of India on 26 January 1950, only 3 lions are visible, the fourth being hidden from view.
LEGAL FRAMEWORK
- The use of the State Emblem is regulated by the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, and the State Emblem of India (Regulation of Use) Rules, 2007.
- These laws restrict the use of the emblem to authorized individuals and institutions.
- The Ministry has emphasized that strict action should be taken against government officials responsible for the improper display of the emblem and against unauthorized individuals or organizations using the emblem on items such as stationery, vehicles, etc.
CALL FOR COMPLIANCE
- The Home Ministry has urged state authorities to ensure that the complete and accurate version of the State Emblem is used, following the guidelines set out in the relevant Acts and Rules.
- Authorities are also reminded to take necessary action against unauthorized use of the emblem and incomplete depictions by any entities.
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