Vande Mataram Bill Passed: Insulting National Song Punishable

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, also known as the Vande Mataram Bill, has been passed by both houses of the Indian Parliament. The bill makes it a punishable offense to intentionally prevent the singing of 'Vande Mataram' or disrupt an assembly where it is sung. The penalty includes up to three years imprisonment, a fine, or both, with repeat offenders facing at least one year in prison. The bill aims to grant India's national song the same legal protection as the national flag and anthem. The passage of the bill has sparked debate and criticism from opposition parties, who argue that it is an attempt to communalize the issue and push a Hindutva agenda.