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Parliament passes Bill criminalizing insults to Vande Mataram

Published July 31, 2026 at 12:33 AM UTC

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India's Parliament has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making any insult or obstruction to the national song, Vande Mataram, a criminal offense. This legislation extends the same legal protections to Vande Mataram that the 1971 Act previously afforded to the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and the national flag. Under the new law, individuals found guilty of intentionally preventing the singing of Vande Mataram or causing disturbances during its rendition can face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both. The bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and passed amid opposition protests. Critics, including members from the Communist Party of India (CPI) and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], argued that the amendment could infringe upon individual freedoms and questioned the necessity of equating the national song with the national anthem in terms of legal protection. Supporters contend that the bill is essential to uphold national honor and prevent disrespect towards national symbols. The legislation is expected to be enacted into law following its passage in both houses of Parliament.