New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved a proposal to grant Vande Mataram a status equal to the national anthem Jana Gana Mana, according to officials.
The decision was taken during the first Cabinet meeting held after the recent election results in multiple states, including West Bengal and Assam. Ministers also congratulated the Prime Minister, describing the outcome as a significant political victory.
Amendment to National Honour Act proposed
As part of the move, the government has approved amendments to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. The aim is to bring Vande Mataram under the same legal protection currently extended to the national anthem.
Once implemented, any act of disrespect, obstruction, or disruption during the singing of Vande Mataram would be treated as a cognisable offence, similar to provisions applicable to the national anthem.
Legal provisions and penalties
At present, the law provides punishment for insults to national symbols such as the flag, the Constitution, and the anthem. Penalties include imprisonment, fines, or both.
Under existing rules:
- Disrupting the national anthem can attract up to three years of imprisonment
- Repeat offenders may face a minimum of one year in jail
If the amendment is passed, these provisions are expected to apply to Vande Mataram as well.
Historical and cultural significance
Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Vande Mataram played a crucial role during India’s freedom movement and remains a symbol of national pride.
Officials noted that the move coincides with the 150th anniversary of the composition, adding symbolic importance to the Cabinet’s decision.
Background and parliamentary context
The demand to grant equal status to Vande Mataram has been raised periodically, including during a discussion in Parliament in December last year.
Officials also pointed out that similar legislative changes were made in 2005 to strengthen protections against misuse of the national flag, indicating a precedent for expanding safeguards for national symbols.
Next steps
The proposed amendment is expected to be introduced in Parliament in the coming session. If approved, it would mark a significant shift in the legal recognition and protection of national symbols in India.
Conclusion
The Cabinet’s decision signals a move towards expanding the legal framework around national symbols, placing Vande Mataram on par with Jana Gana Mana. While the proposal carries historical and cultural significance, its final implementation will depend on parliamentary approval.