NEW DELHI: The Indian government is set to introduce legislation that would make the intentional disruption or insult of ‘Vande Mataram’ a criminal offence punishable by up to three years in prison, according to reports from Indian media.
The proposed bill is expected to be presented in Parliament by Home Minister Amit Shah. If enacted, the legislation would impose prison sentences and financial penalties on individuals found guilty of deliberately interrupting or disrespecting the singing of Vande Mataram.
Although Vande Mataram is widely regarded as India’s national song, it is not the country’s national anthem. India’s official national anthem remains ‘Jana Gana Mana’. The proposed legislation seeks to provide Vande Mataram with enhanced legal protection.
The move comes amid ongoing debates in India over national symbols, patriotism, and freedom of expression. Supporters argue that the measure is intended to preserve respect for a song that holds historical significance in India’s independence movement.
However, Vande Mataram has long been a subject of controversy. Before the partition of the Indian subcontinent, several Muslim organizations opposed portions of the song, arguing that certain lyrics conflicted with Islamic beliefs because they were interpreted as venerating the nation in a religious manner.
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The proposed legislation is expected to be debated in Parliament before any final decision on its adoption.
