Modi Government Takes Major Decision on ‘Vande Mataram’ After West Bengal Poll Victory

Cabinet Moves to Grant Vande Mataram Equal Legal Status with National Anthem, Tightens Rules Against Disrespect

By OdishaConnect On May 6, 2026

This handout photograph taken and released on June 10, 2024 by the Indian Press Information Bureau (PIB) shows India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) holding the first cabinet meeting, in New Delhi. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled on June 10 his coalition government after a surprise election setback lost his Hindu-nationalist party an overall majority. The 71 members of his government took the oath of office after Modi on June 9, with 11 posts going to coalition allies who extracted them in exchange for their support -- including five in the top 30 cabinet posts. (Photo by PIB / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / Indian Press Information Bureau (PIB) " - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS

Cabinet Decision Elevates National Song Status

Following the election victory in West Bengal, the Union Cabinet has reportedly taken a significant decision regarding the national song “Vande Mataram”, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. The decision was taken in the first Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the polls.

The government has decided to accord “Vande Mataram” the same respect and legal protection as the National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana.”

Amendment to National Honour Law

The Cabinet has approved a proposal to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. With this change, any disrespect or disruption during the singing of “Vande Mataram” will be treated as a punishable offence.

The amended law will make the national song subject to the same legal provisions that currently apply to the National Anthem, National Flag, and Constitution. Offenders may face imprisonment, fines, or both.

Legal Provisions and Penalties

As per the proposed amendment to Section 3 of the Act, any intentional disruption or disrespect during the singing of the national song could lead to up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both. Repeat offences may attract stricter punishment.

The move comes at a time when the nation is marking the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram.”

Historical and Political Context

The discussion on giving equal status to “Vande Mataram” had previously been raised in Parliament. During earlier debates, Prime Minister Modi had criticized what he described as political neglect of the song due to appeasement politics.

Earlier this year, the Home Ministry also issued guidelines on proper conduct during the singing of the national song at official events.

Political Significance

The song played a key role during the West Bengal election campaign, where the BJP highlighted it as a symbol of nationalism and cultural identity. The party also organized mass singing events and rallies across the state.

Political observers believe the decision will further strengthen the symbolic importance of “Vande Mataram” in national discourse while sparking debate over its legal and cultural implications.