The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to extend statutory protection to Vande Mataram, the national song. The Bill was passed amid a walkout by Opposition members and will now be sent to the Lok Sabha for consideration. If approved by the Lower House, it will require the President's assent before becoming law.
The Bill, introduced in the Rajya Sabha on July 24 by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, is part of the government's broader initiative to mark the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. According to the government, the legislation is intended to preserve the dignity of the national song, which it says played a significant role during India's freedom movement.
The proposed legislation has drawn criticism from several Opposition parties. They have argued that making the singing or playing of Vande Mataram mandatory raises constitutional concerns relating to individual freedoms and federal principles. Some state governments have also expressed reservations, saying the directive could affect state autonomy and secular values.
The Bill will now be taken up by the Lok Sabha. If passed by both Houses of Parliament and approved by the President, the amendment will become law.
Sources: Hindustan Times
