Context: National Song Amendment Bill 2026
The Union Government has introduced the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Rajya Sabha.
The Bill seeks to extend statutory protection to Vande Mataram, the National Song, by making its intentional insult, obstruction or disruption during singing a punishable offence.
Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971
The Act was enacted to protect the dignity of:
- National Flag
- Constitution of India
- National Anthem
Section 3
Section 3 punishes anyone who intentionally prevents the singing of the National Anthem or causes disturbance to an assembly engaged in singing it.
Punishment
Punishment may include:
- Imprisonment up to 3 years
- Fine
- Both
2026 Amendment
The proposed amendment extends the same legal protection to Vande Mataram.
This means intentional insult or obstruction during its singing will also become punishable.
Vande Mataram – Basics
Written By
First Published In
Anandamath, 1882.
National Song
The first two stanzas were adopted as the National Song by the Constituent Assembly on 24 January 1950.
Recent Development
The Union Government has been observing the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.
The Ministry of Home Affairs recently advised States to ensure that Vande Mataram is played or sung at official functions where the National Anthem is rendered.
The present Bill gives statutory backing by extending legal protection under the 1971 Act.
Difference Between National Anthem and National Song
Jana Gana Mana is the National Anthem.
Vande Mataram is the National Song.
Both command high national respect, but until now only the National Anthem had explicit statutory protection under the 1971 Act.
Key Takeaway
The Bill seeks to legally protect the National Song in the same manner as the National Anthem, by making intentional insult or obstruction punishable.
