Relevance for Banking, SSC & RBI Grade B exams: Polity

The CPI(M) has opposed the introduction of the *Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026*, which seeks to grant legal protection to *Vande Mataram* by making its insult a criminal offence. The party argues that the Bill is unconstitutional, citing the Constituent Assembly’s deliberate decision not to accord the National Song the same status as the National Anthem. CPI(M) MP John Brittas highlighted that the Constitution and Parliament have consistently withheld statutory recognition for *Vande Mataram*, as seen in Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s 1950 statement and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which only penalises insults to the National Anthem. He further contended that the Bill infringes upon fundamental rights, including freedom of speech (Article 19(1)(a)), religion (Article 25), and personal liberty (Article 21), citing the Supreme Court’s judgment in *Bijoe Emmanuel v. State of Kerala*.

For banking and SSC aspirants, this issue is relevant as it tests their understanding of constitutional provisions, fundamental rights, and parliamentary procedures. Questions may arise on the distinction between the National Anthem and National Song, the role of the Constituent Assembly, and the balance between freedom of expression and national symbols. RBI Grade B candidates, in particular, should note how such legislative debates impact governance and legal frameworks, which are crucial for economic policy formulation. The debate also underscores the importance of judicial review in protecting constitutional rights, a concept often tested in competitive exams.

Source: The Hindu

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