New Delhi: Vande Mataram Bill has been passed by both Houses of Parliament, giving India’s national song the same legal protection as the national anthem. The new law will make intentional insult or obstruction of the singing of Vande Mataram a criminal offence once it receives the President’s assent. The move amends the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 and extends legal safeguards to the national song.
Parliament Clears the Vande Mataram Bill
The Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 on 30 July, a day after it was approved by the Rajya Sabha. With approval from both Houses, the Bill has now been sent to President Droupadi Murmu for assent. It will become law after the President signs it.
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What Will Change Under the New Law
The amendment adds Vande Mataram to the list of national symbols protected under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. Until now, the Act mainly protected the National Flag, the Constitution of India and the National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana). The amendment gives the national song similar legal protection.
Vande Mataram Bill: What Will Be Considered an Offence
Under the amended law, the following actions can become punishable if done intentionally:
- Insulting Vande Mataram
- Intentionally stopping its singing
- Creating disturbances during its singing
These provisions mirror the existing legal protections available for the National Anthem.
Vande Mataram Bill: What Is the Punishment
The amended law provides:
- Imprisonment for up to three years, or
- A fine, or
- Both imprisonment and fine.
For repeated convictions, stricter punishment may apply under the amended provisions.
Why Was the Amendment Introduced
According to the Bill, the purpose is to remove a legal gap because Vande Mataram did not previously enjoy the same statutory protection as the National Anthem. The government said the amendment ensures equal legal respect for India’s national song and other important national symbols.
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