Parliament Passes Bill Granting Legal Protection to Vande Mataram
The Parliament on Thursday passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, extending legal protection to the national song 'Vande Mataram'. The bill, which amends the existing law, places the national song on par with the national anthem in terms of legal safeguards against disrespect or insult.
The legislation was passed amid sharp divisions in the House. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) opposed the bill, arguing that it could be used to impose a particular cultural symbol and divide the nation. DMK members expressed concerns that the amendment might be employed to target those who do not wish to sing the song on religious or cultural grounds.
Defending the bill, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) asserted that the amendment was necessary to honour the complete version of Vande Mataram, which is a cherished part of India's freedom struggle. BJP members emphasised that the law would ensure due respect for the national song, without infringing on legitimate dissent.
The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, originally covered only the national flag and the Constitution. Over time, the national anthem was included. The current amendment adds the national song, making insults or disturbances during its singing a punishable offence. The bill specifies that any act that prevents the singing of Vande Mataram or shows disrespect to it will attract penalties.
The debate highlighted the balance between upholding national symbols and protecting freedom of expression. Legal experts note that while the law criminalises intentional disrespect, it does not compel anyone to sing the song. The amendment is seen as a move to standardise respect for all national symbols.
The bill now awaits the President's assent to become law. Once enacted, it will apply uniformly across the country, reinforcing the legal status of Vande Mataram as a national song.
