Shiv Sena (UBT) Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut has issued a direct challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, daring them to recite the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ without the aid of a teleprompter. This challenge comes ahead of the proposed introduction of a bill in the Rajya Sabha aimed at amending the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
Bill to Criminalize Insult to Vande Mataram
The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, is slated to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Rajya Sabha. This legislative proposal seeks to amend the existing Act to make any obstruction or intentional insult to the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ a criminal offense. The bill is listed for introduction on the inaugural day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the proposed legislation aims to extend statutory protection to ‘Vande Mataram,’ placing it on par with the national anthem in terms of legal safeguards against insult or obstruction. Information was available with The Chenab Times that the bill seeks to make such actions punishable by law.
Raut’s Political Stance and Protests
Raut’s challenge was made public as he addressed reporters outside Parliament, criticizing the central government’s proposed legislation. His remarks also coincided with ongoing protests by various groups, including activists affiliated with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), who are planning a march towards Parliament. Raut alleged that the government had underestimated the scale and impact of these protest movements.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader highlighted the widespread support for these protests, stating that they are gaining traction across major cities in the country. He referred to significant demonstrations held in Maharashtra, including a large gathering at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, which was attended by Uddhav Thackeray and Aaditya Thackeray, along with thousands of citizens, children, and youth. Similar protests have been reported in Pune, Nagpur, and other parts of Maharashtra.
The Chenab Times has learned that Raut questioned the government’s potential response to such widespread public dissent, rhetorically asking if the authorities intended to arrest lakhs of protestors or utilize investigative agencies like the CBI against them.
Broader Political Context and Other Issues
Raut’s statements also touched upon other political developments and controversies. He made references to ongoing discussions concerning climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and the legal proceedings related to his health and protest. Raut suggested that judicial matters should be left to the courts while praising the protesters at Jantar Mantar, describing each child there as a leader.
The context of Raut’s remarks also includes his party’s ongoing political battles and defections. Earlier this year, he had accused Amit Shah of aspiring to the Prime Minister’s post and orchestrating political splits within the Shiv Sena. His party has faced significant setbacks with several Lok Sabha MPs joining the Eknath Shinde-led faction, reducing Uddhav Thackeray’s parliamentary strength.
The political discourse surrounding the ‘Vande Mataram’ bill and Raut’s challenge to the Prime Minister and Home Minister unfolds against the backdrop of a crucial parliamentary session, with various other legislative proposals and public agitations also shaping the national conversation.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
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