On September 2, 2024, a historic moment occurred as President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a new flag and insignia for the Supreme Court of India during the 75th anniversary celebrations. As a lawyer, I found this change deeply meaningful—it is not just about a new design but a powerful symbol of justice and India’s rich cultural heritage.

Image Credit: Supreme Court’s New Flag and Insignia Unveiled by President Murmu – Key Features - Hindustan Times

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Why This Change Matters to All of Us

The new flag and insignia are not just fancy symbols—they carry a deep message for every Indian. As someone who spends a lot of time in courtrooms, I know that symbols like these serve as daily reminders of why we fight for justice. They remind us that the law is not just about rules but about fairness, equality, and doing what’s right.

A Closer Look at the New Insignia

The new insignia features the Indian national flag at it's heart, surrounded by three lions from the Lion Capital of Ashoka. These lions are not just there for decoration—they symbolise courage and strength, qualities that every lawyer, judge, and citizen should aspire to. The Dharma Chakra, or Wheel of Law, is also part of the design, reminding us that justice is a continuous journey, always moving forward.

Illustrative image showing supreme court flag

The motto, “Yato Dharmastato Jayah,” meaning “Where there is righteousness, there is victory”, hits home for me. It is a reminder that real victory in the courtroom is not just about winning a case but about upholding the truth, liberty of the citizens and fairness. As Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Felicity Jones) says in ‘On the Basis of Sex’ , “We’re not asking you to change the country. That’s already happened without any court’s permission. We’re asking you to protect the right of the country to change.” This reflects the role of the Supreme Court in safeguarding the ability of the nation to evolve while making sure that justice remains at the core of that progress.

The New Flag: A Symbol of Stability and Peace

The Supreme Court’s new flag has a blue background with the new insignia in the centre. Blue is a colour that represents calmness, stability, and fairness—all qualities essential to a strong judicial system. As someone who often deals with heated cases, I see the colour blue as a reminder to stay calm and think clearly, no matter how tough the situation gets.

This flag is a clear statement that the Supreme Court stands for justice that is both fair and firm. It shows that the court is not just a government body but a protector of people’s rights, dedicated to serving everyone equally.

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Why the Public Is Talking About It

The new flag and insignia have sparked a lot of conversation among the public. Many see it as a sign that the Supreme Court is modernising while staying true to its roots. People are sharing their thoughts on social media, expressing pride in this new chapter for the judiciary. This change has made people feel more connected to the justice system, seeing it as something that evolves with the times but remains committed to core values.

As a lawyer, I have heard different views from my colleagues and clients. Some think it is just a cosmetic change, while others believe it is a powerful statement about the direction in which our justice system is headed. It is a reminder that, just like the new look of the court, the law too must evolve with the needs of the society.

Connecting to Our Roots

The Supreme Court has been a guardian of justice since it's establishment in 1950. The new flag and insignia are more than just symbols—they are connections to our past and guides for our future. By incorporating the Lion Capital and the Dharma Chakra, the court is reminding us of our ancient traditions of justice, showing that these values are still relevant today.

As a lawyer, I see this as a call to action—a reminder that we are part of a long tradition of fighting for what is right. It encourages us to continue working hard to ensure that justice is accessible to all, not just in words but in actions.

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Moving Forward with a New Vision

President Murmu’s unveiling of the new flag and insignia is not just about tradition; it is about looking forward. It is about a future where the Supreme Court continues to stand as a symbol of justice and fairness for all citizens. It is a reminder that the law is alive, ever-changing, and must be responsive to the needs of the people it serves.

For me and many others in the legal field, this new flag and insignia are not just symbols—they are daily inspirations. They remind us of our duty to uphold justice with integrity and fairness. And for every Indian, they are a sign that the Supreme Court is committed to moving forward while holding on to the values that make our justice system strong.

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Seersha Chaudhuri's profile

Written by Seersha Chaudhuri

Driven legal professional with a BA LLB and a knack for writing and media reporting. Previously, I’ve crafted legal documents and managed court proceedings at Terkiana PC, focusing on immigration law. I’m also brushing up on my Spanish with Duolingo—learning a new language has never been this fun! Eager to blend my expertise in legal research with my passion for global policy and creative writing. Apart from being a professional, I am a full time lover of fish, dystopian fiction and Brooklyn 99.

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