A resident of Howrah has approached the Calcutta High Court with a petition to challenge a directive from the West Bengal government that mandates the singing of Vande Mataram in all madrasas across the state.
The petition, submitted by Md Mahatabuddin Lasker, who describes himself as the guardian of a minor student enrolled in a madrasa in Sankrail, argues that the order issued on May 19 by the Directorate of Madrasah Education contravenes several provisions of the Indian Constitution, including Article 14 (Right to Equality), Article 19(1)(a) (Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression), and Article 25(1) (Right to Freedom of Religion).
Lasker’s petition points out that guidelines from the Government of India, dated January 28, indicate that the practice of community singing of the National Song (Vande Mataram) in schools is merely a suggestion and not a requirement.
The petition contends that the contested order improperly transforms a voluntary practice into an obligatory one without any legal backing. It further argues that the lyrics of Vande Mataram contain references to Hindu deities, which the petitioner claims conflict with the Islamic belief in monotheism.
In his petition, Lasker asserts that his ward is willing to participate respectfully during morning assemblies but feels that making the singing compulsory infringes on personal freedom and the right to express one’s beliefs. He emphasizes that the references in the song that link the Motherland to Hindu deities are fundamentally opposed to Islamic teachings.
Lasker clarifies that his objection is rooted in sincere religious belief and not born out of disrespect or unpatriotic sentiments. He argues that the freedom of speech and expression, as outlined in Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, encompasses not only the right to express oneself but also the right to remain silent and not be compelled to sing or speak against one’s will.
He describes the government’s directive as “arbitrary and unconstitutional” and calls upon the High Court to annul it. The court is expected to hear the case on Friday.
Following the formation of the new BJP government in West Bengal, the singing of Vande Mataram was made compulsory in all government schools and madrasas. On Monday, with schools reopening after summer break, morning assemblies at 1,600 madrasas saw the rendition of Vande Mataram, with heads of these institutions capturing the event on video to share with educational authorities.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that respect for the national song and anthem is essential for anyone wishing to live in the country. He emphasized the importance of honoring national celebrations such as Republic Day and Independence Day, asserting that the recitation of Vande Mataram is a reflection of Indian culture.
Tanusree Bose is a committed journalist for The Indian Express based in Kolkata, where she reports on the intricate political, administrative, and judicial developments in West Bengal, establishing herself as a credible voice in regional news.
In her current role, she provides trustworthy content for the esteemed national daily, focusing on the state’s political landscape, judicial matters, and various issues related to education and social dynamics.
Bose’s expertise extends to covering state governance, political controversies involving major parties, and critical developments in the judicial system, particularly those affecting employment and education. Her reporting is recognized for its depth and insight into the social and electoral issues prevalent in the region.
Through her reliable reporting on high-stakes issues, Tanusree Bose has solidified her reputation as a prominent and authoritative source of news from West Bengal.
