Using part of national emblem violates rules, says high court

The division bench of justice Abhay Oka and justice Girish Kulkarni was hearing a public interest litigation raising the issue of using the words “Satyamev Jayate” that form part of the national emblem, as title of a television show anchored by actor Aamir Khan

The Bombay high court on Friday rapped the Central government for taking a stand that part use of national emblem does not amount to violation of provisions of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and relevant rules.

The division bench of justice Abhay Oka and justice Girish Kulkarni was hearing a public interest litigation raising the issue of using the words “Satyamev Jayate” that form part of the national emblem, as title of a television show anchored by actor Aamir Khan.

The judges said expressed displeasure over the stand of the Central government that the national emblem cannot be used for any commercial purpose, use of the words “Satyamev Jayate” does not amount to violation of provisions of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and relevant rules.

The judges said the words “Satyamev Jayate” were part of the emblem and the provisions of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and relevant rules cannot be interpreted in that manner.

Expressing displeasure over the stand taken by the Central government on the issue, the judges then asked the additional solicitor general to appear in the matter and assist the court. It has now posted the PIL filed by Manoranjan Roy for further hearing after two weeks.

The national emblem of India consists of four lions standing back to back — symbolizing power, courage, pride and confidence — mounted on mounted on a circular base having the Ashok Chakra at its centre, and the words “Satyamev Jayate” below the base.