Government Introduces Bill to Penalise Disruption During Vande Mataram Rendition

New Delhi, July 24:

The Central Government on Friday introduced the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha, proposing criminal penalties for individuals who deliberately obstruct or disrupt the rendition of Vande Mataram.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai tabled the Bill during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The proposed amendment aims to expand the scope of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 by bringing intentional disruption or prevention of the national song within the ambit of punishable offences.

The government said the amendment is intended to protect the dignity and honour of Vande Mataram, describing it as a symbol of India’s freedom movement and national heritage.

Supporting the proposal, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Seth said Vande Mataram has earned greater public acceptance over the years and deserves respect wherever it is sung.

However, Opposition parties questioned the constitutional validity of the proposed law. CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas urged the Centre to reconsider the amendment, arguing that criminalising disruption during the rendition of the national song could raise concerns related to fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 19, 21 and 25 of the Constitution.

In a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Brittas stated that while Vande Mataram holds immense historical significance, imposing criminal liability in connection with its rendition would represent a significant departure from the existing constitutional framework governing national symbols. He cautioned that the move could affect the balance between patriotism and individual freedoms.