National 02 Jun, 2026

Vande Mataram in WB: AIMPLB calls it constitutional rights 'infringement', seeks order's withdrawal

Business To Business, New Delhi, 2^nd June, 2026:  A controversy has emerged in West Bengal after the state's BJP government made the singing of "Vande Mataram" mandatory during morning assemblies in state-run, state-aided schools and madrassas, prompting objections from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).
AIMPLB's objection
The AIMPLB said the directive constitutes a "direct infringement" on the constitutional freedoms of Muslims and urged the government to either:

• Withdraw the order, or
• Grant an exemption to Muslim students who object to singing the song on religious grounds.

According to the board, the move is inconsistent with:

• India's secular character,
• Constitutional guarantees of religious freedom, and
• The country's democratic traditions.

The government's decision
Last month, the government of West Bengal directed that "Vande Mataram" be sung during morning assemblies in:

• State-run schools,
• State-aided schools, and
• Madrassas receiving government support.

The order was implemented with immediate effect.
Why is "Vande Mataram" controversial for some groups?
"Vande Mataram", composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, played a significant role in India's freedom movement and is recognized as the country's national song.
However, some Muslim organizations have historically objected to portions of the song, particularly references that they interpret as equating the nation with a divine figure. They argue that such expressions may conflict with certain Islamic beliefs regarding worship.
Others maintain that the song is a patriotic and cultural symbol rather than a religious text and should be viewed in the context of India's independence struggle.
Constitutional context
The debate touches on two constitutional principles:

1. Promotion of national symbols and civic values in educational institutions.
2. Protection of individual freedom of conscience and religious belief under the Constitution.

Indian courts have previously dealt with similar issues involving patriotic songs, national symbols, and religious objections, often emphasizing a balance between national obligations and individual constitutional rights.
Political implications
The issue is likely to generate debate among:

• Religious organizations,
• Educational institutions,
• Political parties,
• Constitutional experts.

Supporters of the policy argue that it promotes patriotism and national unity, while critics contend that compulsory participation may infringe upon individual religious freedoms.
The West Bengal government has not yet publicly responded to the AIMPLB's latest demand for withdrawal of the order or exemptions for Muslim students.