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Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon Session of Parliament on Monday. The proposed legislation seeks to extend statutory protection to India’s national song, Vande Mataram, making its deliberate insult or obstruction during rendition a punishable offence.
The Bill has already received approval from the Union Cabinet and has been listed for introduction, consideration and passage in the Lower House.
If enacted, the amendment will modify the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which currently provides legal protection to the National Flag, the Constitution of India and the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana. The proposal aims to place Vande Mataram on the same legal footing as these national symbols.
Under the proposed law, anyone found intentionally insulting, disrespecting or disrupting the singing of Vande Mataram could face up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both. The penalties would mirror those already prescribed for offences involving the National Anthem.
The government has said the amendment follows earlier Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines that require Vande Mataram to be played or sung at official functions where the National Anthem is performed. The objective is to provide the national song with the same statutory respect and legal safeguards as other national emblems.
The Bill is yet to become law. It must be passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha before receiving the President’s assent. If approved, it will mark the first time Vande Mataram receives explicit legal protection under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.