Why in news
Tripura unveiled its first official state emblem after approval from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The proposal for the emblem of the Government of Tripura has been approved under Rule 4(2) of the State Emblem of India (Regulation of Use) Rules, 2007.
What are the Provisions Related to the State’s Flag, Emblem and Song?
State Flag: States in India can have a state flag, as long as it does not supersede or contradict the Indian national flag as per the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, Flag Code of India, 2002 and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
The Supreme Court of India (SC) in S. R. Bommai v. Union of India Case 1994 ruled that states can have their own flags, as long as they do not dishonor the national flag.
SC further stated that the Constitution of India does not prohibit states from having their own flags.
It held that the state flag should always be flown below the national flag, cannot be flown alongside it, and cannot be used for official or statutory purposes.
State Emblem: The State Emblem of India is regulated under the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005.
States in India can adopt their emblem but require Union Home Ministry approval for state symbols.
Authorized uses of states’ emblems include official seals, stationery, vehicles, and key public buildings.
Unauthorized use for personal, organizational, or commercial purposes is strictly prohibited.
State Song: India lacks uniform legislation on state songs, which are typically approved by state legislatures or executives.
These songs reflect the state's heritage and are sung at official events, ensuring respect for national unity and the national anthem.
Example: West Bengal announced Poila Baisakh (first day of the Bengali month of Baisakh) as State Day (or Bangla Divas), and Banglar Mati Banglar Jal, composed by Rabindranath Tagore, as the State Song.
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