The national emblem of India
The national emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Asoka at Sarnath, which features four lions back-to-back on an abacus. Only three lions are visible in the emblem, with a Dharma Chakra in the center and a bull and a galloping horse on the sides of the abacus. Below the emblem, the national motto "Satyameva Jayate" (Truth Alone Triumphs) is inscribed in Devanagari script.
The use of the National Emblem of India (the Lion Capital of Ashoka) is strictly regulated by law.
The rules are mainly given under:
State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005
State Emblem of India (Regulation of Use) Rules, 20071. Who can use the National Emblem?
✅ President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Governors, Chief Ministers, Union Ministers, MPs, MLAs (in official capacity).
✅ Central and State Government departments, constitutional authorities, statutory bodies, commissions, courts.
✅ Government offices on letterheads, seals, official vehicles, buildings, passports, etc.
2. Can private individuals use it?
❌ No. Ordinary citizens cannot use it for personal or decorative purposes at home, offices, shops, or business logos.
3. Can it be used on religious buildings?
❌ No. Religious institutions, temples, mosques, gurudwaras, or churches cannot display the national emblem.
4. Can government officials use it on inauguration plaques?
✅ Yes, but only when it is a government project/building.
Example: A government school, hospital, bridge, or office can have an inauguration plate with the National Emblem along with the official’s name/designation.
❌ Private buildings/projects (like private schools, trusts, or NGOs) cannot display it.
⚠️ Punishment for misuse:
Improper use can lead to imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine up to ₹5000, or both (as per the 2005 Act).
Case of Waqf Board & Dargah Renovation
A State Waqf Board is a statutory body (created under the Waqf Act, 1995). It is not a government department, but an autonomous religious body under government supervision.
Since a dargah (religious place) is a religious institution, the national emblem cannot be used on its renovation plaque or building.✅ Waqf officials can use their official seal and logo of the Waqf Board.
❌ They cannot use the national emblem on religious sites, even if government grants are used.
📌 Simple Rule:
Government buildings/projects = Emblem allowed
Religious/private institutions (temples, mosques, dargahs, churches, gurudwaras, NGOs) = Emblem not allowed