Jail Term for Obstructing 'Vande Mataram': Govt Introduces Bill in Rajya Sabha Amid Uproar

Amid continuous opposition protests and disruptions during the first week of Parliament's monsoon session, the central government introduced a significant legislation aimed at granting legal protection to the national song, 'Vande Mataram'.

Key Highlights:
- Bill Introduction in Rajya Sabha: Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai tabled the 'Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026' amid an uproar by the opposition, leading to the adjournment of the House until Monday, July 27.
- Legal Protections and Penalties: Once passed, the bill will bring 'Vande Mataram' under the same legal framework as the national flag and national anthem ('Jana Gana Mana'). Obstructing its recitation or insulting it could lead to up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
- Opposition Stance: Left parties and opposition members have registered their resistance against the proposed legislation, contributing to heated exchanges and repeated adjournments in the upper house.