Overview
The Union Government has proposed granting Vande Mataram legal protection similar to Jana Gana Mana through amendments to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act.
The proposal comes during the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, which was written in 1875 by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
If the amendment becomes law, disrespect or deliberate disruption during Vande Mataram in official settings may attract penalties similar to those applicable to the National Anthem.
Historical Importance of Vande Mataram
Symbol of India’s Freedom Movement
Vande Mataram played a major role during India’s struggle against British colonial rule.
The song became:
Freedom fighters across India sang the song during protests, public meetings, and movements against British rule.
The song created emotional unity among people during the independence movement.
Origin of Vande Mataram
Written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay wrote Vande Mataram in 1875 in Sanskritized Bengali.
The song later appeared in his famous novel Anandamath.
Over time, it became closely linked with India’s nationalist movement.
The phrase “Vande Mataram” means “I bow to thee, Mother.”
The mother here represents the motherland, India.
National Anthem and National Song
Difference Between Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram
After independence, the Constituent Assembly took an important decision in 1950.
Both were considered symbols of national respect.
However, only the National Anthem received direct legal protection under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act.
This created a legal difference between the two national symbols.
What the New Proposal Seeks
Equal Legal Protection
The Union Cabinet led by Narendra Modi has proposed amendments to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act.
The amendment seeks to: