New Delhi, July 30: Parliament has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, extending the same legal protection enjoyed by India’s National Anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” to the National Song, “Vande Mataram.” The Bill was approved by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha and will become law after receiving the President’s assent.
What the Amendment Provides
The amendment expands the scope of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which currently protects the National Flag, the Constitution, and the National Anthem from acts of intentional disrespect.
With the new amendment, “Vande Mataram” will receive the same legal protection. Deliberately insulting the National Song or intentionally disrupting its singing during official functions or public ceremonies will now attract legal action under the amended law.
Under the existing Act, such offences can carry imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both, depending on the nature of the violation.
History of Vande Mataram
“Vande Mataram” was written by renowned Bengali novelist Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the 1870s and was later included in his famous novel Anandamath. During India’s freedom movement, the song became a powerful symbol of patriotism and inspired countless freedom fighters.
On January 24, 1950, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram as the country’s National Song, while “Jana Gana Mana” was adopted as the National Anthem.
The opening verses praise the motherland as a land blessed with fertile fields, flowing rivers, cool breezes, lush greenery, and abundant natural beauty, expressing deep devotion and love for the nation.
Parliamentary Debate
The Union Government described the amendment as a step towards ensuring equal respect for all national symbols. Several Opposition members, however, questioned the necessity and implementation of the legislation during the parliamentary debate. After discussions in both Houses, the Bill was passed.
Once it receives the President’s assent, the amendment will come into force, placing the National Song under the same legal protection as the National Anthem.
