Lok Sabha Passes Bill Criminalising Insults to Vande Mataram
India's Parliament has passed a new bill making it a criminal offense to insult 'Vande Mataram', the national song.
Source: GNews ParliamentThe Lok Sabha recently passed a bill that criminalises insults to 'Vande Mataram'. This approval came just one day after the Rajya Sabha had also given its consent to the same legislation. The bill aims to protect the sanctity and respect associated with 'Vande Mataram', which holds significant historical and national importance in India. Once enacted, any act deemed insulting to the national song could lead to legal penalties. This move reflects the government's intention to reinforce national symbols and sentiments through legislative measures. The bill's passage through both houses of Parliament marks a significant step towards its implementation as law.
This bill is important for competitive exams under Polity (UPSC GS Paper II, SSC General Awareness). Aspirants should understand the legislative process, the significance of national symbols like 'Vande Mataram', and the implications of laws related to national honour. Questions may arise on the constitutional provisions related to national symbols or the powers of Parliament to enact such laws.
- The bill criminalises insults to 'Vande Mataram', India's national song.
- Lok Sabha passed the bill one day after Rajya Sabha's approval.
- The legislation aims to protect the sanctity of the national song.
- Legal penalties will be imposed for acts deemed insulting to 'Vande Mataram'.
- The bill's passage signifies a legislative effort to reinforce national symbols.
'Vande Mataram' is a Bengali poem written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1870s. It was adopted as the National Song of India in 1950. It played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, inspiring many freedom fighters. The first two verses of the song are the official national song.
The Lok Sabha, or House of the People, is the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament. Its members are directly elected by universal adult suffrage. The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 550 members. It holds significant legislative power, including the power to introduce and pass money bills.
The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the upper house of India's Parliament. Its members are indirectly elected by the elected members of state legislative assemblies. It has a maximum strength of 250 members. The Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in reviewing and amending legislation passed by the Lok Sabha.
Exams often test knowledge about national symbols, their origins, and related constitutional provisions. Be prepared for questions on the author of 'Vande Mataram', its adoption date, and the difference between the National Anthem and National Song.
Remember 'Vande Mataram' (VM) was 'Voted' into law by 'Both' houses (Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha) to protect its 'Value'.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new bill passed by Parliament regarding 'Vande Mataram'?
The new bill passed by Parliament criminalises any act of insult towards 'Vande Mataram', India's national song. It aims to ensure respect for this important national symbol and imposes legal penalties for violations.
When was 'Vande Mataram' adopted as the National Song of India?
'Vande Mataram' was adopted as the National Song of India by the Constituent Assembly on January 24, 1950. This decision was made alongside the adoption of the National Anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'.
Who wrote 'Vande Mataram' and what is its significance?
'Vande Mataram' was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in the 1870s. It gained immense significance during the Indian independence movement, serving as a rallying cry for freedom fighters and symbolising national pride and resistance against British rule.