The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has expressed strong opposition to the recent government notification that requires the recitation of all verses of ‘Vande Mataram’ before the National Anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’ at official events and schools. The AIMPLB General Secretary, Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi, criticized the move, labeling it as unconstitutional and a violation of religious freedom. He emphasized that the decision contradicts constitutional principles, secular values, and previous Supreme Court rulings, going against the religious beliefs of Muslims.
Mujaddidi highlighted historical discussions where it was agreed to use only the first two stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’ in official settings, following Rabindranath Tagore’s advice and Constituent Assembly deliberations. He argued that a secular government should not impose the beliefs of one religion on followers of another. The song’s references to deities like Durga, which go against Islamic beliefs, were cited as a reason for Muslim objection.
The AIMPLB reiterated that Muslims cannot accept anything that conflicts with their faith, emphasizing Islam’s monotheistic worship of Allah. They pointed out that certain verses of ‘Vande Mataram’ have been deemed inconsistent with secular principles by courts in the past, leading to restrictions on their recitation in specific contexts. The Board demanded the immediate withdrawal of the notification and threatened legal action if the government does not reconsider its stance.
The Union Home Ministry’s order, dated January 28, mandates the singing of the complete six stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’ at official functions. The national song will precede the National Anthem when both are performed together. Specific instances where ‘Vande Mataram’ will be sung include the arrival and departure of the President and Governors at government events, before and after the President’s national address, and during flag hoisting ceremonies. The song will also feature at civilian award ceremonies, including the Padma awards, and public venues like cinema halls, although standing during its rendition will not be compulsory.
