A fresh political storm has engulfed India over the compulsion to sing ‘Vande Mataram’ under new central guidelines, drawing sharp reactions from across the spectrum. Leading the charge, UP Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya proclaimed, ‘Living in India means singing Vande Mataram—it’s non-negotiable. Opponents will expose themselves.’
This comes as the nation marks 150 years of the iconic song, originally penned during the freedom movement. BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj, fresh from a pilgrimage in Nashik, emphasized its essence: ‘It’s a tribute to the motherland, not gods. Every patriot should embrace it.’
Opposition was swift. Congress’s Imran Masood defended religious autonomy, invoking constitutional protections against forced changes in worship. Meanwhile, Mumbai Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadi advocated compliance with law while safeguarding interfaith harmony.
BJP’s Mayankbhai Nayak recalled past objections that led to court threats. Shiv Sena’s Shaina NC framed it as national duty: ‘Jana Gana Mana is the anthem, but Vande Mataram is our song of pride—learn it if you must.’
Responding to Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind’s criticism, BJP’s Pratul Shah Dev affirmed the Home Ministry’s resolve. Lawmakers Vivekanand Pandey stressed its non-sectarian nature, Yogesh Shukla linked opposition to anti-constitutional stance, Nand Kishor Gurjar issued a stark warning to relocate if unwilling, and Rajeshwar Singh portrayed India as a nurturing mother deserving reverence.
The guidelines aim to revive the full rendition of the song in official events, reigniting discussions on nationalism versus personal belief. With voices from BJP, Shiv Sena, Congress, and civic leaders clashing, India’s political landscape braces for deeper divisions or potential unity on cultural symbols.