The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is scheduled for introduction in the Lok Sabha in the Monsoon Session beginning 20 July 2026. The Bill seeks to extend statutory protection to the song Vande Mataram under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
About the proposed amendment
- Purpose: To place Vande Mataram within the ambit of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 so that insults or obstruction during its singing/playing attract criminal liability.
- Scope: Aims to give Vande Mataram legal parity with the national anthem for offences covered by the Act.
Existing law
- Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971: Central statute that penalises insults to the national flag, the Constitution and the national anthem.
- Penalty under proposed amendment: Provides for imprisonment of up to three years, or a fine, or both (as per Bill text reported).
- National anthem: Jana Gana Mana was adopted on 24 January 1950.
Vande Mataram: origin and official directions
- Origin: First published in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel Anandamath in 1882.
- Ministry direction (9 July 2026): States and central ministries directed that Vande Mataram be played before Jana Gana Mana and that all six stanzas be sung or played at official events.
Legislative procedure
- Parliamentary process: Bill introduction in Lok Sabha begins its parliamentary passage; enactment requires passage by both Houses and Presidential assent.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Statutory year: Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act enacted in 1971.
- Legal effect: Inclusion under the Act creates cognisable offences under the Indian Penal Code framework once enacted and notified.