THE PREVENTION OF INSULTS TO NATIONAL HONOUR (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2026

**Executive Summary** The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026, was published in the Gazette of India on August 6, 2026, to amend the original 1971 Act. The primary purpose of this amendment is to substitute Section 3 to include specific protections for both the National Anthem and the National Song. The Act establishes criminal penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for those who intentionally prevent or disturb the singing of these national symbols. **Key Points / Main Content** **Substitution of Section 3** * The Act replaces the existing Section 3 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, with updated provisions. **Prohibited Conduct** * It is now a punishable offense to intentionally prevent the singing of the National Anthem or the National Song. * The Act prohibits causing any disturbance to an assembly that is actively engaged in singing the National Anthem or the National Song. **Penalties for Non-Compliance** * Violations of these provisions are punishable by imprisonment for a term that may extend to three years. * Offenders may also be subject to a fine, or a combination of both imprisonment and a fine. **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Individuals** **Impact** Citizens and residents are now legally liable for actions that interfere with the performance of the National Song in addition to the National Anthem. **Action Required** Individuals must ensure they do not intentionally obstruct or create disturbances during the singing of national symbols in public or private assemblies. **Law Enforcement and Judicial Authorities** **Impact** Authorities have a clarified legal mandate to arrest and prosecute individuals who disrupt national honors, with specific inclusion of the National Song. **Action Required** Enforcement agencies must update their protocols to align with the substituted Section 3 and process violations according to the prescribed three-year maximum sentencing guideline. **Organizers of Public and Private Assemblies** **Impact** Organizers are provided legal protection against individuals who seek to disrupt the performance of national symbols during their events. **Action Required** Organizers should ensure that assemblies involving the singing of the National Anthem or National Song are conducted in a manner that allows for the identification and reporting of any intentional disturbances.