President Droupadi Murmu assents to Vande Mataram Bill, giving national song legal protection on par with anthem

President Murmu has approved a bill granting Vande Mataram legal protection. This legislation makes deliberate insults during its singing a punishable offense. The new law extends existing penalties from the National Anthem to the National Song. Opposition MPs have raised concerns about the practical implications of this requirement. The bill passed Parliament last month, now awaiting full implementation.