Overview
On 21 August 2026, Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a gathering in Siliguri, West Bengal. He criticised the incomplete acceptance of Vande Mataram even after independence. He also highlighted the recent enactment of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026 and the rollout of three new criminal statutes in the state.
Key Developments
- Shah called the lack of wholehearted embrace of Vande Mataram "unfortunate" and termed the Congress party’s decision to sing only two stanzas as "anti‑national".
- He described the 2026 amendment act as a "historic decision" that makes insulting the song a criminal offence.
- Inauguration of exhibitions on three new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.
- Shah accused the previous Trinamool Congress government of delaying these laws to protect a "syndicate, cut‑money and extortion regime".
- With West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari present, Shah claimed the BJP has restored the "rule of law" in the state, replacing what he called "goonda raj" under the Trinamool.
- Visit to the Sashastra Seema Bal headquarter