The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aims to criminalize actions that disrupt the singing of Vande Mataram, India's national song, during official events.

The proposed legislation, set for introduction in Parliament's Monsoon session, seeks to amend Section 3 of the existing law to include penalties for preventing or disturbing the rendition of the song.Offenders could face up to three years in prison, a fine, or both.The bill references the 1950 Constituent Assembly meeting, where Vande Mataram was granted equal status to the National Anthem.Legal experts argue that the move strengthens national pride but raises concerns about censorship.

The amendment comes amid growing debates over balancing patriotism with freedom of expression, as activists warn against overreach in regulating cultural symbols.