Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Vande Mataram Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha after receiving approval from the Rajya Sabha a day earlier, clearing the way for it to be sent to the President for assent. The bill was passed despite protests and disruptions by opposition members in both Houses of Parliament.
Rajya Sabha approved the bill on 29 July, and the Lok Sabha passed it on 30 July. Once the President gives assent, it will become law.
Under the proposed legislation, Vande Mataram will receive legal protection similar to that provided to the national anthem Jana Gana Mana. Insulting the national song, disrupting its rendition, or preventing anyone from singing it will be treated as an offence.
The bill proposes up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both for acts considered disrespectful to Vande Mataram. Similar penalties already exist for insulting the national anthem.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai introduced the bill in the Rajya Sabha on 24 July. The government said the legislation is necessary to preserve the dignity of the national song, which played a significant role in India’s freedom movement.
The bill also mentions the singing of all six stanzas of Vande Mataram. The move follows a Home Ministry directive asking states to play or sing the national song during official functions, especially those where the national anthem is performed.
According to the directive, Vande Mataram should be sung or played before Jana Gana Mana, and participants should stand in the attention position during its rendition.
Following the passage of the bill in the Lok Sabha, the House was adjourned until the morning of 31 July.
