Rajya Sabha passes bill to make insult to ’Vande Mataram’ a criminal offence

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Jul 29, 2026: The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making insults to Vande Mataram a criminal offence.

The Upper House took up the bill for discussion despite noisy protests by Opposition parties, which later staged a walkout.

When the House reconvened after lunch, Deputy Chairman Harivansh urged protesting members to maintain discipline and decorum.

The Opposition members raised slogans demanding a response from Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the alleged use of police force against demonstrators protesting the NEET paper leak in the national capital. They also insisted on Shah’s presence in the House as the bill was taken up for consideration and passage.

Despite the protests, the Deputy Chairman continued the proceedings and invited members listed to participate in the debate.

The Opposition eventually walked out while Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale was speaking on the proposed legislation.

The amendment bill seeks to make the desecration of or disrespect towards the country’s national symbols—including the national flag, the Constitution, the national anthem, and Vande Mataram—a criminal offence punishable with up to three years’ imprisonment.