Archive · 30 Jul 2026
Rajya Sabha Passes Bill Criminalising Insults to Vande Mataram
The Indian upper house, called the Rajya Sabha, made a new law that says it is a crime to insult or stop people from singing Vande Mataram, the national song.
If someone does this, they could go to jail for up to three years or pay a fine.
The law was passed even though many opposition members walked out and shouted protests.
The government says the song is very important to India’s history and wants to keep it respected.
The bill will now go to the lower house of Parliament for more discussion.
Rajya Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, extending legal protection to Vande Mataram.
The bill makes intentional insults or obstruction of the national song punishable by up to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both.
The passage occurred amid opposition protests and a walkout, with the bill now moving to the Lok Sabha.
The amendment aligns Vande Mataram with other protected symbols like the national flag, constitution, and anthem.
The government cites the song’s historical significance and the 150th anniversary of its composition as justification.
- Who
- Members of Rajya Sabha, including Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, and opposition parties
- What
- Passed a bill criminalising insults to the national song Vande Mataram
- When
- 29 July 2026
- Where
- Rajya Sabha, New Delhi
- Why
- To protect the national song and align it with other national symbols
- Bill Name
- Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026
- Protection Extended To
- Vande Mataram
- Maximum Penalty
- Three years imprisonment, fine, or both
- Passed By
- Rajya Sabha
- Next Stage
- Lok Sabha
- Date Passed
- 29 July 2026
Sources
Rajya Sabha Passes Bill Making Insult To Vande Mataram A Criminal Offence Amid Opposition Walkout
Rajya Sabha passes Bill to criminalize insults to ‘Vande Mataram’
Vande Mataram Bill passed in Rajya Sabha, all you need to know
Amid Opposition protest, Rajya Sabha passes Bill criminalising insult to Vande Mataram
Vande Mataram Bill passed in RS
