Zealots appear to have overlooked human nature: Tharoor slams Govt's Vande Mataram move

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor expressed skepticism on Tuesday (August 11, 2026) regarding the feasibility of a recently amended law that grants statutory protection to the National Song, Vande Mataram, on par with the National Anthem. In a statement on social media platform X, Mr. Tharoor highlighted concerns about the practical implications of mandating the full singing of Vande Mataram at the beginning and end of official functions.

He acknowledged respect for both national symbols, Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram, but questioned whether respect and patience could be legislated. The President, Droupadi Murmu, had recently assented to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which extends the same protection to Vande Mataram as the National Anthem.

This legislation makes intentional harm to Vande Mataram or disruption of an assembly singing it a punishable offense, with penalties including up to three years in prison, a fine, or both. Tharoor warned that the legislation's goal of fostering greater respect for the National Song might not be realized and could instead have the opposite effect by demanding that audiences stand in silence for nearly 12 extra minutes before and after every function.