New Delhi, July 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till Monday after Opposition members, led by Left parties, strongly protested the introduction of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to extend legal protection to the National Song, Vande Mataram.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai introduced the Bill, proposing amendments to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The existing law prescribes imprisonment of up to three years for acts of disrespect towards the National Flag, the Constitution and the National Anthem. The proposed legislation seeks to include Vande Mataram under similar legal protection.
The CPI(M) opposed the Bill, terming it unconstitutional and an infringement of fundamental rights. CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member John Brittas moved a notice under Rule 67 objecting to its introduction, arguing that patriotism and nationalism could not be imposed through legislation.
Other Left members, including CPI MPs A. Rahim and Santosh Kumar P., also opposed the move. Santosh Kumar alleged that the Bill had been brought to divert attention from the ongoing student protests over the NEET issue, while asserting that Vande Mataram should unite rather than divide the country.
Defending the legislation, Rai said the Constituent Assembly had accorded equal respect to the National Song and the National Anthem on January 24, 1950, and the amendment aimed to provide stronger legal safeguards for Vande Mataram.
Amid persistent protests and slogan-shouting by Opposition members, Deputy Chairman Harivansh adjourned the House till July 27.
If enacted, the Bill would make acts of insulting or obstructing the singing of Vande Mataram punishable under law.
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