Rajya Sabha Passes Bill To Criminalise Insult to Vande Mataram, Extends Same Legal Protection as National Anthem

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, paving the way for ‘Vande Mataram’ to receive the same statutory protection as the national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’. The Bill was passed by a voice vote amid protests and a walkout by Opposition members.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, making intentional insult, obstruction, or disturbance during the singing of Vande Mataram a criminal offence. If enacted, violations may attract imprisonment of up to three years, along with other penalties provided under the law.

The Bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on July 24, 2026, and comes as the country marks the 150th anniversary celebrations of Vande Mataram. The government stated that the amendment aims to accord the national song the same legal status and protection currently available to the national anthem.

Opposition Protest During Debate

The debate on the Bill took place amid continued protests by Opposition parties, who demanded a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police action against protesters over the NEET paper leak issue.

Despite repeated sloganeering, Deputy Chairman Harivansh proceeded with the discussion and urged members to participate in the debate. During the proceedings, several Opposition members staged a walkout while Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale was addressing the House.

Government Defends the Amendment

Replying to the debate, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai defended the proposed amendment, stating that Vande Mataram has been an enduring symbol of India’s freedom movement and national unity.

He referred to the role of the song during the independence struggle, noting that many freedom fighters raised “Vande Mataram” while making the ultimate sacrifice for the country. Rai also criticised the Opposition’s stance on the Bill, alleging that it reflected appeasement politics.

According to the government, extending legal protection to the national song is consistent with the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” and recognises the historical and emotional significance of Vande Mataram.

What the Amendment Seeks to Do

The amendment proposes to:

• Extend the protection available under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 to Vande Mataram.
• Criminalise intentional acts of insult, obstruction, or disturbance during the singing of the national song.
• Provide punishment that may extend to three years’ imprisonment, in line with the existing provisions applicable to the national anthem.

If the Bill becomes law after completing the remaining legislative process, Vande Mataram will enjoy the same statutory protection as Jana Gana Mana under Indian law.