Vande Mataram Gets Legal Protection

President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Bill, 2026, granting the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ legal protection similar to that enjoyed by the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’. Intentionally obstructing, stopping or disrupting the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ will now be treated as an offence. Violators may face up to three years in prison, a fine, or both, while repeat offences will attract a minimum one year jail term.

The Bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha on July 29 and the Lok Sabha on July 30 before receiving the President’s assent. Meanwhile, ‘Vande Mataram’ will reportedly be sung for the first time from the Red Fort ramparts during this year’s Independence Day celebrations. The government has also clarified that when both songs are performed at the same event, ‘Vande Mataram’ should be sung first, followed by ‘Jana Gana Mana’.