As per case facts, two writ petitions were filed in the Kerala and Madhya Pradesh High Courts, challenging the conferment of National Awards like Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. The ... petitioners contended that these awards were "titles" under Article 18(1) of the Constitution, which prohibits the State from conferring titles, thereby violating the principle of equality. The Madhya Pradesh High Court initially issued an interim stay on the conferment of awards. Subsequently, both cases were transferred to the Supreme Court for a consolidated hearing. The question arose whether the Awards, Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, are "Titles" within the meaning of Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India? Finally, the Supreme Court ruled that these National Awards are not "titles" in the sense prohibited by Article 18(1). While recognizing their importance for honoring meritorious service, the Court acknowledged concerns about their misuse and suggested that they should not be used as prefixes or suffixes to names. The Court also recommended establishing a high-level committee to frame comprehensive guidelines for the selection and conferment of these awards, ensuring that their prestige and dignity are maintained and the number of awards does not dilute their value.