The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has criticized the West Bengal government’s directive making the recitation of Vande Mataram mandatory in state schools and recognized madrasas. The Board views this as a violation of fundamental rights and has called for the withdrawal of the order. They emphasize that forcing students, especially Muslims, to recite a text conflicting with their religious beliefs goes against constitutional freedoms.
The AIMPLB spokesperson highlighted that such a mandate contradicts India’s secular ethos and democratic principles. He cited constitutional provisions like Articles 19, 25, and 28(3) to support the argument against compelling students to participate in activities that clash with their religious convictions. The Board stressed that the imposition of Vande Mataram on Muslim students infringes upon their religious identity and constitutional rights, urging respect for individual beliefs and choices.
The Board referenced a Supreme Court ruling that emphasized the right of citizens to refrain from engaging in national or religious ceremonies that conflict with their sincere religious beliefs. They underscored that the state should not impose the cultural or religious practices of one community on another. The AIMPLB reminded the community in West Bengal of their legal rights and encouraged them to seek legal recourse if pressured to recite Vande Mataram, emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional and legal protections.
