Opposition Protests as Government Introduces Bill on Respect for Vande Mataram in Rajya Sabha
The proposed legislation includes up to three years in prison and fines for insulting Vande Mataram or disrupting its rendition.
The central government introduced the Prevention of Insult to National Honour Amendment Bill in the Rajya Sabha on Friday during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, despite loud protests from opposition members.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai tabled the bill as opposition MPs raised slogans and objected to its introduction. The proposed legislation aims to update existing laws related to national honour and strengthen legal provisions concerning the protection of national symbols, the national flag, and the national song.
Under the proposed amendment, showing disrespect to the national song Vande Mataram or deliberately disrupting its performance could become a punishable offence. The bill proposes a maximum prison term of three years, a fine, or both for anyone found guilty of intentionally insulting the song or creating disturbances during its rendition.
The government said the measure is intended to reinforce respect for national symbols, arguing that protecting them is both a constitutional and moral responsibility of every citizen.
Opposition members strongly criticised the timing and content of the bill, raising concerns about its possible impact on fundamental rights and freedom of expression. The protests briefly disrupted proceedings in the Upper House before the government stated that the proposed legislation would be discussed in detail before moving forward in the legislative process.
Political and legal experts believe the bill, if passed, could expand the powers of law enforcement authorities in cases involving national symbols. Opposition parties have indicated they will continue challenging the legislation inside and outside Parliament and are expected to demand that it be referred to a parliamentary committee for further examination.