President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday gave her assent to the Vande Mataram Bill, a landmark move that grants the National Song the same legal protection as the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
The legislation, passed by Parliament last month, amends the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, ensuring that any insult or obstruction to the singing of Vande Mataram will now be treated as a criminal offence.
Under the amended law, such offences are punishable with imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.
The move places Vande Mataram on par with other national symbols, reinforcing its cultural and constitutional significance. It marks a historic expansion of the national honour framework, reflecting the government’s emphasis on safeguarding India’s heritage and identity.
