Vande Mataram to Get Legal Protection Equal to National Anthem; Insult Could Attract Jail Term

The Indian government plans to introduce a bill in the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, making it illegal to disrupt or insult the national song 'Vande Mataram', with penalties up to three years in jail and a fine. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the 1971 act, currently protecting the national flag, Constitution, and anthem.