Equal Status to the National Song: Parliament Passes Bill Criminalising Insults to Vande Mataram
Equal Status to the National Song: Parliament Passes Bill Criminalising Insults to Vande Mataram In a significant legislative move during the 2026 Monsoon Session of Parliament, both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 . The new legislation amends the landmark Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 , extending statutory legal protection to the National Song, Vande Mataram , on par with the National Anthem ( Jana Gana Mana ), the National Flag, and the Constitution of India. Key Provisions of the 2026 Amendment Under the existing 1971 framework, intentional disrespect towards the National Anthem, Flag, or Constitution carried penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both . The 2026 Amendment officially incorporates Vande Mataram into this legal protection: Criminalisation of Disruption: Intentionally preventing the singing of Vande Mataram or causing a willful disturbance to any...