Parliament passes Prevention of Insults to National Honour Bill extending protection to Vande Mataram
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
Parliament has passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, extending legal protection to the national song Vande Mataram, placing it on par with the national anthem. The DMK opposed the bill, accusing the government of dividing the country, while the BJP defended it as necessary for national unity.
Background
The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 originally covered the national flag, Constitution, and national anthem. The amendment adds Vande Mataram to the list of protected symbols, making insult or disrespect punishable by law.
Key facts
Parliament passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill on July 31, 2026.
The bill extends legal protection to the national song Vande Mataram against insult.
Vande Mataram is now placed on a par with the national anthem for legal protection.
The DMK opposed the bill, accusing the government of dividing the country by imposing the national song.
BJP defended the bill, with Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai stating that for 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat', the complete six-stanza Vande Mataram song is needed.
The amendment ensures people can pay respect to Vande Mataram without hindrance.
Prelims pointers
- Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971
- Vande Mataram – national song of India
- National anthem – Jana Gana Mana
- Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha – Parliament
- Ministry of Home Affairs
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Discuss the significance of extending legal protection to national symbols and the balance between national unity and federal sensitivities.
- GS2 Governance: Critically examine the role of Parliament in amending laws related to national honour and the implications for freedom of expression.
- GS1 Indian Society: Analyze the cultural and historical importance of Vande Mataram and the debates around its imposition in a diverse society.