Archive · 20 Jul 2026
Amit Shah to introduce Vande Mataram bill in Rajya Sabha
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is going to introduce a new bill in the Rajya Sabha.
This bill wants to give the national song, Vande Mataram, the same legal protection as the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
If the bill becomes law, people who insult or disrupt the singing of Vande Mataram could go to jail for up to three years or pay a fine.
Right now, the law only protects the national anthem.
The bill also follows a recent order that Vande Mataram should be played before the national anthem at official government events.
Some people support the bill because they think it will protect national respect and unity.
Others are worried it might limit freedoms and create divisions.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha.
Bill seeks to extend legal protection to Vande Mataram, similar to the National Anthem.
Proposed penalty for insulting or disrupting Vande Mataram: up to three years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Current law mandates respect for the National Anthem, with penalties for insult or disruption.
Bill follows a directive from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for Vande Mataram to be played before the National Anthem at official events.
- Who
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah
- What
- Introduction of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026
- When
- Monday, July 20
- Where
- Rajya Sabha
- Why
- To extend legal and statutory protection to the national song, Vande Mataram, similar to the National Anthem
Supporters of the Bill
Critics of the Bill
Legal Protection for National Song
Supporters of the Bill
Supporters argue that Vande Mataram, as the national song, deserves the same legal protection as the national anthem to preserve national respect and unity.
Critics of the Bill
Critics contend that extending such legal protection could infringe on individual freedoms and expression, potentially leading to misuse of the law.
Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Supporters of the Bill
Proponents believe the bill will help preserve the cultural heritage and national identity associated with Vande Mataram.
Critics of the Bill
Opponents argue that mandatory singing and strict legal penalties could alienate certain communities and create unnecessary divisions.
- Bill Name
- Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026
- Introduced By
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah
- Session of Parliament
- Monsoon Session
- Current Legal Protection
- National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana)
- Proposed Penalty
- Imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both
- Directive Issued By
- Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- Date of Directive
- July 9
Sources
Amit Shah to introduce Vande Mataram bill in Rajya Sabha tomorrow
Amit Shah To Table Prevention Of Insults To National Honour (Amendment) Bill In Rajya Sabha Tomorrow
Monsoon Session: Amit Shah to introduce Vande Mataram bill in Rajya Sabha on July 20
Jail up to 3 years, fine for insulting Vande Mataram: Amit Shah to introduce Bill in Parliament Monsoon Session
