Shashi Tharoor Criticises Vande Mataram Mandate

Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor has criticised the Centre's decision to make singing the full version of Vande Mataram mandatory at official functions. The new rule, introduced through an amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, requires the singing of Vande Mataram in full at the start and end of any official function, in addition to the National Anthem.

Tharoor expressed his concerns over the practicality of the new rule, stating that it could end up defeating its objective of fostering greater respect for Vande Mataram. He noted that while he respects both the National Anthem and Vande Mataram, requiring the complete song to be sung at official events could be impractical.

The Congress MP pointed out that the National Anthem takes around 52 seconds to sing, while the full version of Vande Mataram takes approximately three minutes and 10 seconds. He also referred to Tamil Nadu's decision to have its State Song sung before both national songs, which could require people to stand respectfully for several minutes at the start and end of every official programme.

Tharoor questioned whether respect for national symbols could be enforced through legislation, warning that excessive formalisation could instead lead to impatience and undermine the intended reverence for Vande Mataram. He also noted that the amended law gives Vande Mataram statutory protection similar to that enjoyed by the National Anthem, making intentional disruption of the singing of the national song or interference with an assembly engaged in singing it a punishable offence.

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed by Parliament amid disruptions and without a detailed discussion. President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the bill, which has sparked debate over the role of legislation in promoting respect for national symbols.

Tharoor's criticism of the new rule has highlighted the complexities of promoting respect for national symbols through legislation. While the intention behind the new rule may be to foster greater respect for Vande Mataram, its implementation could have unintended consequences.

The issue has sparked a wider debate over the role of legislation in promoting national pride and respect for national symbols. As the country continues to evolve and grow, it is essential to consider the impact of such laws on the population and to ensure that they do not undermine the very values they aim to promote.

In conclusion, the new rule making Vande Mataram mandatory at official functions has sparked a heated debate over the role of legislation in promoting respect for national symbols. While the intention behind the rule may be noble, its implementation could have unintended consequences, and it is essential to consider the impact of such laws on the population.