Rajya Sabha Takes Bold Step: Insulting 'Vande Mataram' Now a Criminal Offense
Legislation Passed to Protect National Song
New Delhi: On Wednesday, the Rajya Sabha approved a significant bill that criminalizes insults to the national song 'Vande Mataram'.
The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was passed through a voice vote.
As the House reconvened after a lunch break, which followed two earlier adjournments, Deputy Chairman Harivansh called on protesting members to maintain order.
During the discussion on the bill, which was on the agenda for consideration, opposition members continued their protests, demanding a response from Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police actions against demonstrators in the capital over the NEET paper leak incident.
Despite the ongoing protests, the Deputy Chairman proceeded with the House's business and encouraged members to engage in the discussion.
The opposition persisted with their demands and eventually staged a walkout while Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale was addressing the proposed legislation.
In his remarks on the bill, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai accused the Congress party of attempting to undermine the nation's honor by disrespecting 'Vande Mataram' through appeasement politics.
He referenced various instances where 'Vande Mataram' served as the final words of numerous freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
"It is perplexing to see the Congress oppose 'Vande Mataram'... The youth of the country are observing, and the citizens will respond accordingly," Rai stated.
He emphasized that 'Vande Mataram' is essential for the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshta Bharat'.
This proposed law aims to criminalize any desecration or disrespect towards national symbols, including the national flag, the Constitution, and the national anthem, with penalties of up to three years in prison.
Introduced in the House on July 24, the bill seeks to grant 'Vande Mataram' the same legal protection as the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'. This initiative coincides with the ongoing celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'.