Opposition leaders criticised the Vande Mataram Bill, alleging it undermines secularism, religious freedom and the Constituent Assembly's decision to adopt only the first two stanzas. They accused the government of politicising the national song and violating constitutional principles
The Rajya Sabha has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, extending legal protection to the national song Vande Mataram. The law makes insulting or obstructing its rendition a punishable offence with up to three years’ imprisonment or fine.
NDA leaders on Tuesday slammed AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan’s opposition to the proposed Vande Mataram Bill, insisting that respect for the national song is a matter of duty and responsibility. While BJP leaders called Pathan’s remarks misleading and divisive, Samajwadi Party and Congress leaders urged caution and constitutional balance.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, seeking statutory protection for the national song Vande Mataram. The amendment proposes penalties, including imprisonment up to three years, for intentional insult or disruption of its singing, similar to provisions for the National Anthem.
