Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026

The Union Government, through Home Minister Amit Shah, will introduce 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026' in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session (July 2026). This Bill seeks to amend the 1971 legislation to criminalize insults to Vande Mataram, India's national song. Background: Vande Mataram holds constitutional and cultural significance as the national song adopted under Article 51A(a) which mandates respect for national symbols. Previous controversies have surrounded the singing of this song in schools and public events. The 1971 Act already prescribes penalties for insulting the national flag, Constitution, and map; this amendment extends protection to Vande Mataram. Key Constitutional Angle: This relates to Articles 51A (Fundamental Duties) and 19(1)(a) (Freedom of Speech) — balancing national honor with free expression rights. Why It Matters: Reflects government's emphasis on nationalist symbolism; likely to face Opposition scrutiny on free speech grounds. Exam Connection: May appear in Constitution questions on Fundamental Duties, freedom of speech restrictions, and Parliament's legislative procedure. Expected questions: amendment process, constitutional validity, federalism aspects.