New Delhi, 20 July (H.S.):

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Rajya Sabha on Monday as part of the legislative agenda during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The proposed Bill seeks to provide the National Song, Vande Mataram, with the same legal protection currently available to the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

According to the provisions proposed in the legislation, any person who intentionally insults, obstructs, or disrupts the singing of Vande Mataram could face legal action, including imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both. The amendment aims to bring the National Song within the same legal framework that protects other important national symbols.

At present, the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act provides legal safeguards against disrespect to the National Anthem, the National Flag and the Constitution. Although Vande Mataram holds the status of the National Song and has a significant place in India’s freedom movement, it does not currently have identical statutory protection under the existing law.

The proposed amendment is aimed at strengthening legal provisions related to the dignity and respect associated with Vande Mataram. The government has stated that the move will ensure a uniform framework for protecting national symbols and uphold their significance.

The Bill is among the key legislative proposals listed by the government for consideration during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, which began today, July 20. The session is expected to witness discussions on several important government measures as well as issues raised by opposition parties.

The introduction of the Bill comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs issued guidelines regarding the protocol for the National Song and National Anthem during official programmes, including occasions where both are performed.

The government is expected to seek parliamentary approval for the proposed amendment after detailed discussions in the House.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar