Two Advocates move Supreme Court against State Emblem installed atop Central Vista, alleges violation of State Emblem Act

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Synopsis

Advocates Aldanish Rein and Ramesh Kumar Mishra contended that the newly installed State Emblem of India at the top of Central Vista has a visible difference in the designs of lions, which depicts a changed composure of the lions than that of the symbol preserved in the Sarnath Museum.

Two Advocates have moved Supreme Court against the State Emblem installed at the top of the Central Vista building, alleging that it violates the description and design of the ‘State emblem’ provided under the Schedule [u/S 2(b)] of the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005.

Advocates Aldanish Rein and Ramesh Kumar Mishra contended that the newly installed State Emblem of India at the top of Central Vista has a visible difference in the designs of lions, which depicts a changed composure of the lions than that of the symbol preserved in the Sarnath Museum.

It has been further contended that the lions in the emblem appear to be "ferocious and aggressive" with their "mouth open and canine visible," which is in contrast with the State Emblem preserved in the Sarnath Museum, in which the lions appear to be "calm and composed."

The plea further stated that the Sarnath Lion Capital of Asoka was adopted as the State emblem of India due to its philosophical and spiritual meaning, the four lions represent the four crore spiritual philosophies of Buddha since he is symbolized as a lion.

“The three lions in the National Emblem signify Strength, Courage, and Confidence. It also signifies constant vigilance over all four directions, thus the State emblem is not just a “graphic design” but had entrenched cultural and philosophical significance,” the plea added.

Furthermore, the plea stated that the State is supposed to protect the sanctity of the State Emblem and implement the Act of 2005 but the state is itself violating the law enacted by the Parliament and is violative of the fundamental right of equal protection of law enshrined under Article 14 of the Indian Constitution.

"The State Emblem of India is the mark of the Identity of the Republic of India. The Republic of India belongs to 'We the Indians'. When this identity is interfered with, it hurts the national sentiments of its citizens," read the plea.

Case Title: Aldanish Rein & Another v. Union of India