AIMIM spokesperson Warish Pathan expressed opposition to making the recitation of ‘Vande Mataram’ mandatory, citing conflicts with Islamic beliefs over certain lyrics. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introduced in the Rajya Sabha, aims to provide legal protection to ‘Vande Mataram’. Pathan emphasized that while Muslims respect the national song, there are lines they cannot recite due to religious reasons.
Questioning the consequences for non-recitation, Pathan emphasized that patriotism should not be enforced through compulsory recitation. He criticized the BJP and RSS for allegedly using intimidation tactics on this issue. Drawing a distinction between the national anthem and ‘Vande Mataram’, Pathan highlighted that while his party respects the former, they oppose mandatory recitation of the latter.
Pathan defended the Muslim community against accusations of being unpatriotic for not reciting parts of ‘Vande Mataram’. He pointed out the historical sacrifices made by Muslims in India’s freedom struggle and criticized the labeling of Muslims as non-nationalistic for religious reasons. Pathan stressed that forcing recitation would be unconstitutional and undemocratic, asserting the right to religious freedom under Article 25.
