New Delhi, July 17 -- Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Rajya Sabha during the upcoming Monsoon Session. The proposed legislation seeks to make insulting or intentionally obstructing the singing of Vande Mataram a punishable offence, carrying imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.
The amendment would extend to Vande Mataram the same legal protection currently available to the National Anthem under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. At present, intentionally preventing the singing of Jana Gana Mana or causing a disturbance during its rendition is punishable with up to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. If passed by...