Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Lok Sabha Passes Vande Mataram Bill Amid Opposition Protest
The Indian Parliament’s lower house, called the Lok Sabha, quickly passed a new law that makes it a crime to insult the song Vande Mataram, which is a national song.
Some opposition politicians said the law is unfair and pushes a certain political agenda.
The government said it is a way to honor the country’s heritage.
The vote happened while protests were happening outside the Parliament.
This is the first law passed in the current parliamentary session, which has seen many disruptions.
Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in about 15 minutes amid opposition protests.
Opposition parties, especially Congress and Samajwadi Party, protested the bill, with DMK MPs calling it a communal outlook and a Hindutva agenda.
Government officials defended the bill as a ‘Bill of national pride’ that ensures equal respect for Vande Mataram and the national anthem.
The bill is the first legislation passed by both houses during the Monsoon Session, which has seen frequent disruptions over issues such as the NEET paper leak.
The bill criminalises insults to Vande Mataram, making it a national honour alongside the national anthem.
- Who
- Members of Lok Sabha, including opposition MPs and government ministers
- What
- Passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026
- When
- Thursday, during the Monsoon Session
- Where
- Lok Sabha, New Delhi
- Why
- To protect national symbols and ensure respect for Vande Mataram amid protests over police actions and donation theft
- Bill Name
- Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026
- Passed By
- Lok Sabha
- Date
- Thursday, Monsoon Session
- Criminalises
- Insults to Vande Mataram
- Opposing Parties
- Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK