The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026
Why in News?
The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was introduced and successfully passed by both the Rajya Sabha (on July 29, 2026) and the Lok Sabha (on July 30, 2026) to grant India's National Song, Vande Mataram, the same statutory legal protection currently enjoyed by the National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana).
Key Provisions of the 2026 Amendment Bill
- Amending Section 3: The Bill updates the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, by extending the same legal protection afforded to the National Anthem to the National Song, Vande Mataram.
- Criminalising Disruption: Intentionally preventing the singing of Vande Mataram or disturbing an assembly singing it is now a punishable offence.
- Penalties: Mirroring existing rules, penalties include up to 3 years of imprisonment, fines, or both, with a mandatory one-year term for repeat offenders.
Context of the Parent Act (1971)
- Scope: The original act protected the national flag, constitution, and national anthem, with this amendment adding the national song to that scope.
- Exclusions: The act does not criminalize lawful criticism, ensuring that legitimate discussions about the government or constitution are not considered offences.
Arguments and Concerns Raised
- Government Stance: The Ministry of Home Affairs argues the amendment promotes national pride and corrects a long-standing inconsistency in how national symbols are legally treated.
- Concerns: Opposition members and minority groups expressed concern regarding personal liberty, citing legal precedents that protect the right to refrain from singing, based on freedom of conscience.
