Government to move Bill in Rajya Sabha today to make insult to Vande Mataram a criminal offence
The Indian government is introducing a bill in the Rajya Sabha to grant statutory protection to the national song 'Vande Mataram' under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. The move aims to criminalize intentional obstruction or insults during the singing of the song.
Why it matters
The bill sparks debate over national identity, constitutional interpretation, and the balance between state-mandated patriotism and civil liberties.
The Centre will begin the Monsoon Session of Parliament on Monday (July 20, 2026) with a move to grant statutory protection to the National Song Vande Mataram., listing the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
This legislation seeks to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The existing law penalises acts of disrespect towards national symbols such as the National Flag, the Constitution, and the National Anthem with imprisonment of up to three years.
The proposed amendment seeks to extend similar protection to Vande Mataram . According to the Bill, any act causing obstruction in the singing of the National Song or insulting it in any form would become punishable under law.
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