Rajya Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making insult to Vande Mataram a criminal offence.
New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing legal protection for the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ and making intentional disrespect toward it a criminal offence.
The legislation was approved through a voice vote during the post-lunch session despite continued protests from Opposition members.
Bill Extends Legal Protection to ‘Vande Mataram’
The amendment seeks to place ‘Vande Mataram’ under the same legal protection currently enjoyed by the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’.
Once enacted, any deliberate insult, desecration, or disrespect toward the national song will become a punishable offence. The bill also strengthens legal provisions concerning disrespect toward national symbols, including the National Flag, the Constitution of India, and the National Anthem.
The proposed punishment includes imprisonment of up to three years, along with penalties prescribed under the amended law.
Opposition Protested During Debate
As the Upper House resumed after two adjournments earlier in the day, Deputy Chairman Harivansh appealed to members to maintain order and participate in legislative business.
However, several Opposition parties continued raising slogans, demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah over police action linked to protests concerning the alleged NEET paper leak.
Despite the disruptions, the Chair proceeded with the scheduled discussion on the bill.
Later, Opposition members staged a walkout while Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale was addressing the House.
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Government Defends the Amendment
Replying to the debate, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said the legislation was intended to protect a symbol closely associated with India’s freedom movement.
He recalled that numerous freedom fighters reportedly chanted ‘Vande Mataram’ while sacrificing their lives during the struggle for independence, describing the song as a powerful symbol of patriotism and national unity.
Rai also criticised the Opposition’s stand, alleging that political considerations should never outweigh respect for national symbols.
Introduced During 150th Anniversary Celebrations
The amendment bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on July 24, 2026 and comes as India marks the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’.
The government has stated that extending statutory protection to the national song is part of its broader effort to preserve India’s constitutional values, national identity, and historical legacy.
With its passage in the Rajya Sabha, the bill moves one step closer to becoming law after completion of the remaining legislative process.
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