New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, paving the way for making insults to the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ a criminal offence. The legislation was approved by a voice vote amid protests by Opposition members.
The Bill seeks to grant ‘Vande Mataram’ the same statutory protection currently available to the national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’. It also strengthens legal safeguards for India’s national symbols, including the national flag and the Constitution.
Proceedings resumed after multiple adjournments earlier in the day, with Deputy Chairman Harivansh urging members to maintain order as the House took up the Bill for discussion and passage.
Opposition members continued their protest, demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the recent police action against demonstrators protesting alleged examination paper leaks in the national capital. The protests continued during the debate, and Opposition parties later staged a walkout while Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale was speaking on the legislation.
Replying to the debate, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai defended the Bill, saying ‘Vande Mataram’ has been closely associated with India’s freedom movement and inspired numerous freedom fighters during the struggle for independence. He also criticised the Opposition’s stance on the legislation, describing the national song as a symbol of national unity.
Under the proposed law, desecration of or disrespect towards protected national symbols, including ‘Vande Mataram’, could attract a prison term of up to three years, along with other penalties as provided under the legislation.
The Bill, introduced in the Rajya Sabha on July 24, comes as the country marks the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, with the government stating that the legislation is intended to reinforce respect for one of India’s most significant national symbols.
