Shashi Tharoor Questions New Vande Mataram Rules
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has questioned the practical implications of new rules governing Vande Mataram after the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026 received Presidential assent. He asked whether respect and patience could effectively be enforced through legislation.
Shashi Tharoor Questions Vande Mataram Rules
Tharoor raised concerns over the time audiences may be required to remain standing during official renditions of the National Song and National Anthem.
He noted that the official version of Vande Mataram lasts about three minutes and 10 seconds, while Jana Gana Mana takes around 52 seconds.
Tharoor argued that lengthy ceremonial requirements could risk creating fatigue rather than strengthening respect for national symbols.
Vande Mataram Amendment Gets Presidential Assent
The amended law extends legal protection under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 to Vande Mataram.
It makes intentionally preventing the singing of the National Song or causing disturbances during an assembly engaged in singing it punishable under the law.
However, the amendment itself does not require Vande Mataram to be sung at the beginning and end of every official function.
Full Vande Mataram Lasts Over Three Minutes
Government instructions recognise the full official version of Vande Mataram as lasting approximately three minutes and 10 seconds.
Tharoor said the objective of promoting greater respect for the National Song could be undermined if ceremonial requirements become excessively lengthy or difficult for audiences to follow.
His comments have added to the debate over how national symbols should be incorporated into official ceremonies while balancing respect with practical considerations.
