A short advisory from the Rajya Sabha Secretariat—reminding Members of Parliament that slogans such as “Jai Hind” and “Vande Mataram” should not be raised inside or outside the House—has triggered a major national debate. Supporters claim the rule protects parliamentary decorum, while critics see it as an unnecessary curb on patriotic expression. Here’s a clear and detailed explanation of the entire issue.
What Exactly Was Issued?
Ahead of the Winter Session, the Rajya Sabha Secretariat reissued a bulletin from the Members’ Handbook that discourages shouting any slogans during parliamentary proceedings. The advisory lists examples such as “Thanks”, “Thank you”, “Jai Hind” and “Vande Mataram”, stating that such expressions do not align with the seriousness and discipline expected in the Upper House.
Why Now? The Stated Reason
According to parliamentary officials, the reminder is procedural. Frequent shouting of slogans disrupts debate, wastes time, and prevents smooth functioning of the House. The Secretariat argues that parliamentary sessions should remain focused on structured debate rather than symbolic outbursts.
Political Reactions — Immediate and Loud
The advisory exploded into a political controversy. Several opposition leaders criticised the guideline, arguing that slogans connected to India’s freedom struggle should never be restricted in the world’s largest democracy. Others claimed that the advisory reflects an increasing tendency to control symbolic public expressions inside Parliament. Meanwhile, some voices from the ruling side defended the circular, stating that decorum must come before theatrics.
Historical and Cultural Significance
“Vande Mataram,” taken from Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s 19th-century poem, is officially India’s national song. “Jai Hind” was popularised by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and later adopted by the Indian Armed Forces as a patriotic greeting. Both slogans represent deep national sentiment—which is partly why their restriction, even in a procedural context, has stirred emotional responses across the country.
What the Advisory Means Practically
The rule does not ban MPs from using patriotic phrases during speeches or formal statements. It specifically discourages shouting slogans that may interrupt the proceeding. The Chair of the House retains the authority to call members to order if they violate decorum. The advisory applies only to Parliament and not to public events, rallies, or social media.
Why the Debate Matters
This issue is not just about slogans—it addresses a larger question: how should a democratic institution balance the emotional weight of patriotic expression with the need for order and discipline? Many citizens feel patriotic expressions are integral to national identity. Others believe Parliament must remain a place of calm discussion, free from frequent disruptions.
FAQs
Is saying “Jai Hind” illegal in India?
Absolutely not. The advisory only restricts shouting the slogan during parliamentary proceedings. Outside Parliament, citizens and leaders are free to use “Jai Hind” as they wish.
Who issued the restriction?
The Rajya Sabha Secretariat reissued the guideline from the Members’ Handbook. It is an internal rule meant to maintain discipline within the Upper House.
Does the Lok Sabha follow the same directive?
While the exact wording may differ, both Houses have long maintained rules discouraging slogan shouting. Decorum guidelines exist in both chambers to ensure smooth functioning.
Can MPs be punished for shouting slogans?
The Chair can intervene, ask MPs to maintain decorum, or take procedural steps such as warnings or naming a member. However, severe punishment is rare unless disruptions are repeated or intentional.
Is this a new ban?
No. Similar decorum-related instructions have existed for years. The advisory is essentially a reminder, not a newly crafted rule.
Why are many people upset?
For many Indians, “Jai Hind” and “Vande Mataram” are emotional expressions tied to national pride and freedom. Restricting them—even procedurally—feels unnecessary and symbolic, sparking public anger.
Is the advisory politically motivated?
This is debated. The Secretariat describes it as purely procedural, but critics argue the timing makes it politically sensitive, especially with upcoming legislative sessions.
Does the advisory affect public gatherings?
No. The restriction is solely for the functioning of Parliament. Citizens, politicians, and organisations can freely use patriotic slogans anywhere else.
Can MPs still refer to patriotic themes in speeches?
Yes. MPs can mention slogans or patriotic ideas in formal speeches. The guideline only restricts shouting slogans that disrupt proceedings.
Has Parliament faced such issues before?
Yes. Various sessions in the past have seen reminders and rulings on decorum. The use of slogans, placards, and disruptions has often led to such advisories being reissued.
Conclusion
The debate over restricting “Jai Hind” and “Vande Mataram” in Parliament reflects a deeper tension between tradition and procedure. While the Secretariat sees the rule as necessary to maintain order, many citizens and political leaders view patriotic slogans as essential symbols of India’s identity. Whether this issue fades or fuels further political debate, it has opened an important national conversation about the balance between emotional expression and institutional discipline.
Report by Toofan Express