New Delhi, July 29 -- The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to make any obstruction or insult to the national song 'Vande Mataram' a criminal offence during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned till 11:00 am on July 30.

Replying to the discussion on the Bill, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said that the amendment is not merely a legislative change but shows the collective commitment to India's national consciousness, cultural heritage, and the ideals of the freedom struggle.

Rai said that the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act was enacted in 1971 to ensure respect for the National Flag, the Constitut...