Bill on Vande Mataram Scheduled for Lok Sabha

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is scheduled for introduction in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon Session beginning on 20 July 2026. The proposed amendment seeks to extend statutory protection to Vande Mataram under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 is a central law that deals with insults to the national flag, the Constitution, and the national anthem. The national anthem of India is Jana Gana Mana, which was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 24 January 1950.

Vande Mataram and Statutory Protection

Vande Mataram is a patriotic song from Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel Anandamath, published in 1882. The proposed bill seeks to place Vande Mataram in a legal position similar to Jana Gana Mana for the purpose of punishment for insult or obstruction during singing.

Official Directions on National Songs

On 9 July 2026, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs directed states and central ministries to ensure that Vande Mataram is played before Jana Gana Mana at official events. The directive also asked that all six stanzas of Vande Mataram be sung or played at such events.

Important Facts for Exams

• Jana Gana Mana was adopted as the national anthem of India on 24 January 1950.
• The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 is a central law dealing with national symbols.
• Vande Mataram first appeared in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel Anandamath in 1882.
• The proposed amendment bill provides for imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.

Parliamentary Procedure

A bill introduced in the Lok Sabha becomes part of the legislative process under Article 107 of the Constitution of India. The Monsoon Session is one of the three regular sessions of Parliament, alongside the Budget Session and the Winter Session.