New Delhi: The Central government is set to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, proposing to make any insult to or obstruction of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ a criminal offence. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to table the legislation on the opening day of the session.
The proposed amendment seeks to extend the same statutory protection to ‘Vande Mataram’ that is currently available to the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’ under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The existing law criminalises acts of disrespect towards India’s national symbols, including the national flag, the Constitution and the national anthem, with offenders liable to face imprisonment of up to three years.
If passed, the amendment will make any act that obstructs the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ or insults the national song in any form a punishable offence. The move reflects the government’s efforts to strengthen the legal status of the iconic patriotic song, which holds a significant place in India’s freedom movement and national identity.
The proposed legislation comes as the country marks the 150th anniversary celebrations of ‘Vande Mataram’. As part of these commemorations, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier directed all states to ensure that ‘Vande Mataram’ is played or sung at official functions where the national anthem is performed.
If enacted into law, the amendment would formally place ‘Vande Mataram’ on par with ‘Jana Gana Mana’ in terms of legal safeguards, reinforcing the government’s emphasis on preserving respect for India’s national symbols and patriotic heritage.
