Rajya Sabha takes up discussion on Bill to prevent insult to Vande Mataram; Opposition MPs stage walkout
The Rajya Sabha initiated a discussion on a bill aimed at criminalizing insults to the national song 'Vande Mataram'. Opposition members staged a walkout to protest the government's handling of NEET paper leak demonstrations.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing parliamentary friction between the ruling party and the opposition regarding legislative priorities versus accountability for public grievances.
Rajya Sabha on Wednesday (July 29, 2026) took up a discussion on a Bill to make insult to the national song Vande Mataram a criminal offence, notwithstanding noisy protests by opposition parties who later staged a walkout from the House.
As soon as the House convened in the post-lunch session, Deputy Chairman Harivansh urged protesting members to maintain discipline and decorum.
Parliament proceedings highlights - July 29, 2026
When the Chair took up the discussion over the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 — which was listed for consideration and passing in the list of business, the opposition parties started protesting and sloganeering seeking a response from Union Home Minister Amit Shah over alleged police force against NEET paper ‘leak’ demonstrators in the national capital.
They also raised slogans demanding his presence in the House.
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