Goa, July 17 -- The Centre is set to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, proposing legal protection for Vande Mataram similar to that enjoyed by the national anthem, the national flag and the Constitution. If passed, insulting, obstructing or disrupting the singing of the national song could attract imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.

The proposed amendment expands the ambit of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which currently penalises disrespect towards the national anthem, the Tricolour and the Constitution. The move comes as the Centre marks the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram with nationwide commemorative e...