In a historic move, the High Court of Karnataka has mandated that the portrait or photograph of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar be displayed in a prominent place in all court halls across the state. The order applies to the High Court’s principal bench in Bengaluru, its regional benches in Dharwad and Kalaburagi, and all district and subordinate courts.
Background: Resolution Passed by Full Court
The decision stems from a resolution passed by the Hon’ble Full Court on 26 April 2025, which was later formalised through General Circular No. 02/2025, dated 19 June 2025. The resolution came after consistent representations from the public, members of the legal fraternity, and various organisations seeking due recognition of Dr. Ambedkar’s role as the chief architect of the Constitution of India.
Government of Karnataka’s Involvement
The Karnataka Government had previously communicated similar requests to the High Court, urging that Ambedkar’s image be displayed in all courtrooms as a mark of respect. Responding to these appeals, the Court has now taken concrete steps to implement this symbolic act of constitutional reverence.
Official Excerpt from the Circular
“In view of the representations submitted… and the communication issued by the Government of Karnataka… the Hon’ble Full Court has resolved to cause display of the Photograph/Portrait of Bharata Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Father & Architect of Constitution of India, at prominent suitable place in all the Court Halls…”
Portrait to Symbolise Justice and Equality
The directive, signed by K.S. Bharath Kumar, Registrar General of the High Court, under reference DJA/Misc-31/2019, emphasises that the image should be placed in a “prominent suitable place” within each courtroom. The order is to be implemented with immediate effect.
A Tribute to the Architect of the Constitution
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s portrait in courtrooms will serve as a powerful daily reminder of India’s democratic ideals and constitutional values. It also reinforces his role in laying the foundation of a just and inclusive legal system, furthering the spirit of equality and social justice in the judicial sphere.