Strong opposition from Left party members in the Rajya Sabha has caused a disruption in granting legal protection to the National Song “Vande Mataram.” The adjournment of the House till Monday was a result of the uproar. Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai presented the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aiming to amend the existing law penalizing disrespect towards national symbols.
The proposed amendment includes penal provisions for acts of disrespect towards Vande Mataram, drawing criticism from Left parties, especially the CPI(M). The CPI(M) has labeled the amendment as unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental rights. The legislation faced strong resistance from the CPI(M) members, who objected to its introduction, emphasizing that patriotism cannot be enforced through legislation.
Rajya Sabha member and CPI(M) group leader John Brittas raised objections under Rule 67, stating that patriotism and nationalism cannot be manufactured through laws. Other members, including A. Rahim and Santosh Kumar P. of the CPI, also submitted notices opposing the Bill. Santosh Kumar P. argued that the Bill was introduced to divert attention from ongoing issues and emphasized that “Vande Mataram unites us, not divides us.”
Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai defended the Bill by highlighting the equal status accorded to the National Song and the National Anthem by the Constituent Assembly. He stressed that the amendment aims to enhance legal protections for ‘Vande Mataram,’ which has been honored since January 24, 1950. The introduction of the Bill led to chaos in the House, prompting the Deputy Chairman to adjourn proceedings till July 27.
The new provisions propose punishment for any act hindering the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ or showing disrespect towards it. This development has sparked a heated political debate, with the CPI(M) arguing that the legislation undermines democratic values and individual freedoms by enforcing patriotism through punitive measures. The Bill’s introduction during the Monsoon Session, already disrupted by various issues, indicates potential challenges in its passage through Parliament.
