Vande Mataram Granted Same Legal Status as Jana Gana Mana

The Union Cabinet has approved an amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, extending legal protection to Vande Mataram. The amendment makes obstruction to singing Vande Mataram punishable, similar to the national anthem. Celebrated by BJP MP Anurag Thakur, this fulfills a long-standing demand.

The Union Cabinet has greenlighted an amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which now grants the national song Vande Mataram the same statutory protection as the national anthem Jana Gana Mana. This move positions any obstruction to the singing of Vande Mataram as a punishable offence.

The existing Act covers the national anthem, flag, and Constitution against insults through acts like defacing or trampling, attracting a prison term of up to three years, a fine, or both. Enforcement of the amendment awaits Parliament's approval, promising similar penalties for disruptions during Vande Mataram.

BJP MP Anurag Thakur expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for championing the change. The announcement comes as India celebrates the 150th year of Vande Mataram, reinforcing its cultural significance alongside the national anthem.