Union Home Minister Amit Shah will present the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session of Parliament’s first day. The proposed amendment aims to criminalize disrespect or obstruction of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ by granting it the same legal protection as the National Anthem.
The Bill intends to modify the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which presently penalizes acts of disrespect towards national symbols like the National Flag, Constitution, and National Anthem. If passed, the amendment will extend the same legal framework to ‘Vande Mataram,’ imposing up to three years of imprisonment for intentional insults or disruptions to the National Song.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals intentionally impeding the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ or causing disturbances during its rendition will face similar penalties as those for offenses related to the National Anthem. The move seeks to elevate the legal status of the National Song to match that of the National Anthem.
The initiative follows a directive from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on July 9, instructing states to ensure the playing of ‘Vande Mataram’ before ‘Jana Gana Mana’ at official government functions. The Bill is on the Rajya Sabha’s agenda for Monday, with potential approval leading to the criminalization of insulting or obstructing the National Song under Indian law.
