New Delhi: AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has opposed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, arguing that provisions making the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory violate the constitutional right to freedom of religion.
Speaking after the Bill was passed in Parliament, Owaisi said compelling individuals to sing Vande Mataram would be inconsistent with the religious beliefs of some citizens and raised constitutional objections to the legislation.
Religious freedom at the centre of objections
Owaisi said that, as a Muslim, he worships only Allah and cannot perform any act that he believes is contrary to his faith.
He maintained that compelling a person to engage in conduct that conflicts with sincerely held religious beliefs would infringe upon constitutional protections relating to freedom of religion.
According to Owaisi, citizens should not be forced to choose between complying with the law and adhering to their religious convictions.
Distinguishes between national anthem and Vande Mataram
The AIMIM leader drew a distinction between the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and Vande Mataram.
He argued that Jana Gana Mana expresses respect for the nation and its people, whereas Vande Mataram, in his view, contains elements of devotion to a goddess.
For that reason, he said, the two cannot be treated as equivalent or made subject to the same legal requirements.
Questions legal status of national song
Owaisi also questioned the legal status of Vande Mataram as India’s national song.
He contended that former President Rajendra Prasad erred in 1950 by recognising it as the national song, arguing that Parliament had not passed a formal resolution declaring it so.
He further stated that the Constitution of India does not explicitly define or recognise the term “national song.”
Cites constitutional provisions
Referring to Articles 25, 26 and 29 of the Constitution, Owaisi argued that these provisions protect citizens’ freedom of religion and cultural rights.
He maintained that no citizen should be compelled by law to perform an act that conflicts with their religious beliefs.
The remarks came after Parliament passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. Owaisi’s comments represent his interpretation and constitutional objections to the legislation. The government has defended the Bill, while its implementation and any legal challenges may be subject to further judicial or constitutional scrutiny.