Chandigarh, July 16
Haryana Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Dr. Sumita Misra, has issued a strong public appeal urging citizens not to misuse the State Emblem of India, which is the official seal of the Government of India. She specifically warned against the unauthorized display of the emblem on private vehicles, letterheads, and signboards, highlighting that such acts constitute serious violations of the law and would invite strict penalties.
Dr. Misra stated that the State Emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. The use of this emblem is governed by the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005 and the (Regulation of Use) Rules, 2007, with amendments in 2010. These laws strictly prohibit usage by individuals or organizations not specifically authorized by the Government of India, she added.
Dr. Misra firmly stated that the emblem is not a symbol of personal identity, social status, or influence. It is reserved solely for constitutional authorities and government departments as permitted by law. She emphasized that unauthorized usage is punishable under the 2005 Act and the 2007 Rules, which include provisions for heavy fines and legal proceedings.
Referring to recent instructions from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr. Misra said that the Haryana Government has initiated a comprehensive strategy to prevent misuse of the emblem, National symbols, seals and flags. This includes public awareness campaigns to be held in schools, colleges, and law colleges to educate citizens about the emblem’s legal and constitutional significance. Traffic police will undergo special training to identify emblem misuse on vehicles and take immediate punitive action. Furthermore, departments have been instructed to use print, electronic, and digital media to inform the public about legal provisions concerning emblem usage. The government is also working on setting up complaint redressal platforms and helplines to deal swiftly with reports of misuse.
Additionally, the Government is in the process of framing further regulatory measures to curb the misuse of the State Emblem. These proposed steps include the imposition of higher fines, expedited prosecution, and regular inspection drives across public and government spaces, she added.
“The Emblem is a representation of the nation’s constitutional dignity. Misusing it for personal display is not only illegal but also dishonours the values it represents,” Dr. Misra stated. She urged all citizens to act responsibly, remain aware of legal boundaries, and join hands in safeguarding the sanctity of the nation’s official symbols.
