As India celebrates Independence Day, the country is awash with the tricolour and patriotic spirit. While citizens proudly display their love for the nation, many people may not realise that using certain national symbols without authorisation can amount to a legal offence. (Image-AI)

The State Emblem of India, featuring the Lion Capital of Ashoka and the inscription Satyameva Jayate, is one of the country’s most important official symbols. You may have seen it on government vehicles, official documents and other government communications. But can an ordinary citizen use the emblem on a private car or bike simply to express patriotism or create a VIP impression?

The emblem may be used in connection with constitutional authorities and designated government functions, including the offices of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Governors, Chief Ministers and Union and state ministers, as well as Parliament and state legislatures, subject to the applicable rules.

It is also used by the judiciary, including the Chief Justice of India and judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, in their official capacities. The emblem appears on several official documents and government materials, such as passports, currency, government gazettes, official letterheads and communications issued by Indian diplomatic missions.

It is also used by the judiciary, including the Chief Justice of India and judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, in their official capacities. The emblem appears on several official documents and government materials, such as passports, currency, government gazettes, official letterheads and communications issued by Indian diplomatic missions.

The use of the State Emblem is regulated by the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005. The law aims to prevent unauthorised use of the emblem in a manner that could undermine its official character or mislead people. Depending on the nature of the violation, unauthorised use can attract imprisonment and financial penalties. Therefore, before putting the Lion Capital of Ashoka or the words associated with the State Emblem on a private vehicle, business material or advertisement, citizens should check whether such use is legally authorised.

There is nothing wrong with proudly celebrating Independence Day or displaying the national flag in accordance with the law. However, patriotism does not mean using every national symbol wherever one wishes. The tricolour, national emblem and other official symbols have specific rules governing their use. So, while celebrating India’s Independence, make sure your expression of patriotism does not inadvertently turn into a violation of the law.