Lok Sabha Passes Bill Criminalising Insult to Vande Mataram
- Bill passed in Lok Sabha with minimal debate, under 15 minutes.
- Only two MPs spoke during the discussion.
- Opposition leaders like Kharge and Nadda clashed in Rajya Sabha over the bill.
Swift Passage in Lower House
The Lok Sabha on Thursday cleared a bill that criminalises insult to the national song, Vande Mataram. The entire debate lasted less than 15 minutes, with only two members of Parliament speaking on the floor. The bill now moves to the Rajya Sabha for further consideration.
The legislation seeks to amend existing laws to make any deliberate disrespect or insult to Vande Mataram a punishable offence. Details of the specific penalties have not been disclosed by the government yet. The bill's proponents argue it is necessary to protect national symbols.
Political Tensions in Rajya Sabha
While the Lok Sabha saw a swift passage, the Rajya Sabha witnessed sharp exchanges. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and BJP chief JP Nadda locked horns over the bill. The debate in the Upper House was more contentious, with opposition members raising concerns about potential misuse.
Kharge questioned the need for such a law, suggesting it could be used to target dissent. Nadda countered by emphasising the importance of respecting national symbols and the song's historical significance. The government has not yet set a date for the bill's vote in the Rajya Sabha.
Questions Around the Legislation
Critics have pointed out that the bill was passed with minimal parliamentary scrutiny. The Wire reported that only two MPs spoke in the Lok Sabha, and the entire process took less than 15 minutes. ThePrint has published editorials questioning the balance between patriotism and the right to protest.
The Hindu's Letters to the Editor on July 31 reflected public concern over the bill's implications. Several readers asked whether the law could be applied arbitrarily. Officials have not yet clarified the exact definition of 'insult' under the proposed law.
What happens next is uncertain. The bill now awaits Rajya Sabha approval. If passed there, it will go to the President for assent. Watch for further amendments or a potential referral to a parliamentary committee.