National Emblem Removed For Construction Must Be Reinstalled With Honour: MP High Court

The Madhya Pradesh High Court at Jabalpur has directed the Municipal Corporation, Betul, to ensure that the National Emblem installed at Itwari Bazar, Distt. Betul is reinstalled with proper respect and dignity after completion of ongoing construction work, while disposing of a public interest litigation that challenged its removal from the site.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Vinay Saraf passed the order while hearing a writ petition filed by Raman Gothi, who alleged that the National Emblem erected at a prominent crossing in Itwari Bazar, Betul district, was being removed illegally by the Municipal Corporation.

Appearing for the petitioner, Advocate Sanjay Sanyal argued that the removal of the National Emblem raised concerns regarding the preservation of a national symbol and warranted the Court’s intervention. The petition sought directions against the authorities and questioned the legality of the action undertaken at the site.

Representing the State authorities, Additional Advocate General H.S. Ruprah, assisted by Deputy Advocate General Vivek Sharma, informed the Court about the circumstances surrounding the removal. Counsel appearing for the Municipal Corporation, Advocate Preeti Pathak, submitted that certain construction activities were presently being carried out in the concerned area and the emblem was being removed only as a temporary measure to facilitate the work.

The Municipal Corporation assured the Court that the National Emblem already installed at the crossing was being removed carefully and with due regard to its significance. It further stated that once the construction work was completed, the emblem would be placed back at the very same location while maintaining its dignity and status. Recording this assurance, the Bench noted the statement made on behalf of the Municipal Corporation and accepted it on record.

While disposing of the matter, the Court emphasised that the National Emblem must continue to be treated with the respect that it commands as a symbol of the Republic. The Bench accordingly directed the Municipal Corporation to ensure that the emblem is reinstalled at the location “with proper respect and dignity.”

With this clarification and direction, the writ petition stood disposed of by the Division Bench.

Case Title: Raman Gothi v. The State of Madhya Pradesh and Others

Date of Order: May 12, 2026

Bench: Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Vinay Saraf