Karnataka launches crackdown on misuse of national symbols, sets 4-week deadline

In a decisive step to uphold the dignity of India's national symbols, the Karnataka government has issued a strict four-week deadline to remove all unauthorised and improper use of national emblems, flags, and other protected insignia across the state. This action follows a directive from the Karnataka High Court, which emphasized strict enforcement and legal action against violators.

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The circular, released on Thursday, directs all government departments to initiate stringent action under the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Special attention has been given to individuals and organisations misusing the national emblem, particularly on vehicle number plates.

In addition to enforcement, the government aims to build public awareness through educational campaigns. School and law students will be mobilised to spread the message about respecting national symbols and reporting instances of misuse. This civic initiative is expected to create grassroots awareness and reduce casual violations.

To strengthen field enforcement, traffic police personnel will undergo training to identify and act against such offences. The state is also planning to introduce fresh regulations, enabling penalties and even cancellation of driving licences for offenders. Departments have been tasked with drafting rules for imposing fines and ensuring the law is not merely symbolic but actively upheld.

This initiative comes after repeated communications from the Union Ministries of Home Affairs and Consumer Affairs urging compliance. The campaign signals the beginning of a state-wide crackdown to curb the rising instances of misuse and to reinforce national pride through lawful display and use of symbols.