India's Rajya Sabha session repeatedly halted over Vande Mataram bill

On July 27, 2024, the Rajya Sabha resumed after two earlier suspensions but was soon disrupted by opposition protests. Home Minister Nityanand Rai sought to introduce the National Pride Offence Prevention (Amendment) Bill 2026, which would give the national song “Vande Mataram” a protected legal status and allow punishment for its insult.

Opposition members objected, with CPI(M) lawmaker Dr John Brittas arguing that Parliament cannot rewrite a constitutional declaration through ordinary legislation. Deputy Speaker Harivansh warned members that their conduct violated rules 255 and 238, but the chaos forced the house to be adjourned again at 3 p.m. The bill remains pending amid the parliamentary deadlock.