Government Proposes Bill to Protect National Song 'Vande Mataram' from Insults

In a significant move, the Indian government has introduced a bill in the Rajya Sabha aimed at criminalizing any insults or obstructions to the national song 'Vande Mataram'. This legislation seeks to amend existing laws to provide the same level of protection to 'Vande Mataram' as that afforded to the national anthem. The proposal comes during the celebrations of the song's 150th anniversary, highlighting its historical importance in India's freedom struggle. The bill aims to ensure that any intentional disruption of the song's performance is punishable under law, reflecting the government's commitment to safeguarding national sentiments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 24, 2026, 18:11 IST

Legislation Aimed at Safeguarding National Sentiments

New Delhi: On Friday, the government presented a new bill in the Rajya Sabha aimed at criminalizing any form of obstruction or disrespect towards the national song 'Vande Mataram'.

The Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, introduced 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026', despite opposition from various members, including those from Left parties.

This proposed legislation seeks to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act of 1971, which currently penalizes the desecration of national symbols such as the flag, Constitution, and national anthem, with a potential prison sentence of up to three years.

The bill aims to extend the same legal protections to 'Vande Mataram' as those afforded to the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'. This initiative coincides with the ongoing celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'.

During a meeting of the Constituent Assembly on January 24, 1950, President Rajendra Prasad emphasized that 'Vande Mataram', written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, played a crucial role in India's independence movement and should hold the same status as the national anthem.

Currently, there are no specific laws addressing insults directed at the performance of 'Vande Mataram', as noted in the Statement of Objects and Reasons for the proposed bill.

To prevent any individual from deliberately disrupting the singing of 'Vande Mataram' or causing disturbances during such gatherings, the amendment to Section 3 of the Act is proposed to include the national song, making such actions punishable.