Union Cabinet Proposes Legal Protection for Vande Mataram

Elevating National Song: Proposed Amendment to the 1971 Act

The Union Cabinet has proposed a landmark amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The goal is to extend the same legal protections currently enjoyed by the National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana) to Vande Mataram, the National Song of India. This move would make any intentional insult or obstruction to its singing a punishable offense.

Historical Context:

• Origins: Written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1882 within the novel Anandamath.


• Status: While the Constitution accords it the status of the National Song, it currently lacks the statutory protection provided to the Flag and Anthem.


• Punishment: Under the existing Act, disrespect to protected symbols carries a penalty of up to three years imprisonment.

For TNPSC and Law aspirants, this is a key update in 'Indian Polity - National Symbols,' reflecting the legislative drive to standardize the dignity of national icons.