New Delhi (ABC Live): The Supreme Court of India has restored its original logo featuring the Lion Capital of Ashoka. This move reverses the modern logo introduced during the Court’s 75th anniversary celebrations in September 2024.

From Modern to Traditional

The 2024 anniversary logo, designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), used a navy-blue background with a golden outline of the Supreme Court’s rotunda rising from an open Constitution. It also featured the Ashoka Chakra at the top. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the design, which aimed to present a fresh, modern image of India’s top court.

A Return to Roots

Chief Justice B.R. Gavai chose to bring back the original monochrome seal. This change goes along with the removal of glass partitions in the Court corridors. The partitions had been installed to help with air conditioning under CJI Chandrachud but faced criticism for disrupting the building’s open design.

Legal historian Rahela Khorakiwala points out the deep meaning behind the Court’s architecture. The central dome, created by architect G.B. Deolalikar, symbolizes order and unity in diversity. The return to the Lion Capital likely reflects a desire to strengthen the Court’s original identity instead of adopting modern designs.

What This Means for the Court

Experts have different views on this change. Some see it as CJI Gavai asserting traditional authority. Others say the 2024 logo was only meant to be temporary.

This decision raises broader questions about how India’s judiciary balances tradition with change. Political theorist Max Lerner has said courts maintain legitimacy mainly through public perception. The Chandrachud-era logo reflected openness and modern values. In contrast, Gavai’s early actions stress continuity and rootedness.

Symbolic or Substantial?

It remains unclear if these changes are just symbolic or show a deeper shift in how the Court runs. While logo designs and physical updates may seem minor, they influence how the Court presents itself to the public. They also show how Chief Justices leave their marks.

For now, the Supreme Court’s original emblem is back. This may signal a return to tradition and clear identity. Whether this marks a conservative turn or a practical decision is open to debate.

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