Amid opposition walkout, Rajya Sabha gives approval to Vande Mataram bill

TNN / Jul 30, 2026, 02:37 IST

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File photo: Rajya Sabha proceedings during the Monsoon Session of Parliament

NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill proposing up to three-year jail term and/or fine for anyone preventing or disturbing the rendition of 'Vande Mataram', even as the opposition benches remained empty in view of almost all opposition MPs staging a walkout.Amit Shah to make a statement on police action against NEET paper leak protesters. Angry MPs stood up and raised slogans. At one point of time, TMC MP Derek O'Brien even rushed towards the deputy chairman Harivansh, to make a point of order, but the Parliament security personnel created a barrier and also stood guard in the well.

Junior home minister Nityanand Rai, while replying to the debate, criticised Congress for undermining Vande Mataram and linked it to its policy of appeasement. "Opposing the Vande Mataram amounts to boosting the morale of 'Bharat tere tukde honge' gang," Rai added.