Amid Opposition protest, Rajya Sabha passes Bill criminalising insult to Vande Mataram
The Rajya Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which criminalises intentional disruption of the national song, Vande Mataram, aligning its legal status with the national anthem. The legislation amends a 1971 law that already penalises insults to the national anthem, flag, and Constitution. The Bill was approved amid opposition protests and a walkout, with penalties including imprisonment of up to three years for violations.