Vande Mataram Bill: The Centre is expected to introduce two key Bills in Parliament today, including a proposal to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 and another to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court.
Bill proposes legal action for insulting Vande Mataram
The proposed Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, scheduled to be introduced in the Rajya Sabha, seeks to make any obstruction or insult to the national song Vande Mataram a criminal offence. If passed, the legislation would bring legal provisions to protect the dignity of the national song under the existing law.
Vande Mataram’s historical significance highlighted
The proposed amendment comes amid renewed discussions on the historical importance of Vande Mataram. Recently, Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta described the national song as one of the strongest symbols of India’s freedom movement, saying it inspired countless freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence.
Gupta said Vande Mataram occupies a unique place in the country’s history and continues to represent patriotism and national unity. He also stressed that every citizen should respect both the National Anthem and Vande Mataram, calling them important national symbols that reflect India’s constitutional values.
“Vande Mataram occupies a unique place in India’s freedom movement. Hundreds of freedom fighters drew inspiration from it while fighting for the country’s independence. It remains one of the strongest symbols of patriotism and national unity,” ANI said, citing Himachal Pradesh Governor Gupta.
Commenting on reports of legal provisions related to disrespect towards Vande Mataram, the Governor said any such measures should be viewed in the context of strengthening respect and responsibility towards national symbols. He also suggested organising educational programmes and exhibitions to increase awareness about the national song, particularly among the younger generation.
“A few days ago, I came across an exhibition at The Indian Institution of Advanced Study (IIAS) of where it was highlighted that attempts had been made to remove or diminish important portions associated with Vande Mataram. Such efforts undermine an important part of our national heritage,” he added.
Supreme Court judges’ strength set to increase
Along with the proposed amendment on Vande Mataram, the government is also set to introduce the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026. The Bill seeks to amend the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Act, 1956, by increasing the sanctioned strength of judges in the apex court from 33 to 37, replacing the ordinance issued earlier by the Centre.
Bills to be introduced during Monsoon Session
The Bills are expected to be taken up during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, which began on July 21 and will continue until August 13. The session has already witnessed disruptions, with the Opposition demanding discussions on issues including the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.
While the Opposition has indicated that it will continue pressing for debates on these matters, the government is expected to proceed with its legislative agenda, including the introduction of the two proposed Bills concerning Vande Mataram and the strength of judges in the Supreme Court.