Vande Mataram Granted Equal Status with National Anthem

In a landmark decision, the Indian government grants 'Vande Mataram' the same protections as the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana'. Union Minister Annpurna Devi terms it a historic step. The revised law punishes obstructions to its singing, enhancing its emblematic status in India's cultural and national identity.

In a significant move, the Indian government has accorded the national song 'Vande Mataram' the same legal status as the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana'. Union Minister Annpurna Devi described the decision as a historic step.

This development comes after the Union Cabinet's approval to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The amendment ensures that any obstruction to the singing of 'Vande Mataram' is now a punishable offence, mirroring the protections already in place for the national anthem, flag, and the Constitution.

The minister emphasized that granting this honor to 'Vande Mataram', an inspirational piece during India's freedom struggle, is a tribute to the nation's martyrs. The decision also aims to strengthen India's cultural identity and counter any anti-national sentiments.