New Delhi, July 28: NDA leaders have reacted strongly to comments made by AIMIM national spokesperson Waris Pathan regarding the proposed ‘Vande Mataram‘ bill. They emphasized that honoring the national song is a national duty and responsibility.
Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar stated, “If you want to live in India, you must say ‘Vande Mataram’; otherwise, you can go live in another country.”
Another Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister, Anil Rajbhar, insisted on the necessity of legislation on this issue. He remarked, “The government is working on this, and such a law is essential. Statements like these reinforce the need for such a bill. We cannot forget how many sons of the motherland sacrificed their lives singing ‘Vande Mataram’ during the freedom struggle. Therefore, any disrespect towards it should not be tolerated.”
BJP national spokesperson Guru Prakash also criticized these statements, asserting that respecting the national song is a collective responsibility. He stated, “Honoring the national song is the duty of every citizen. If Waris Pathan or anyone else makes such statements, I believe they are acting against the interests of the country. Such comments create discord in society, which is unacceptable.”
Samajwadi Party leader Udayveer Singh responded cautiously, suggesting that the full context of Waris Pathan’s statements should be understood. He emphasized the importance of knowing the circumstances under which the comments were made and the concerns being raised. Regarding the national song and anthem, he noted that the country has been adhering to constitutional provisions and the principles set by the framers of the Constitution.
Congress leader Hussain Dalwai remarked that the respect for ‘Vande Mataram’ should not be a subject of controversy. He stated, “The question is not whether someone knows ‘Vande Mataram.’ It is essential to show respect for it. There should be no difficulty in reciting it. While traditionally only a few stanzas are sung, why is there not equal emphasis on ‘Jana Gana Mana’? Why are national flags not displayed in some offices? Why are there objections to the Ashoka Chakra? Most importantly, the Constitution should be at the center of people’s thinking.”
Waris Pathan has opposed making the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ mandatory, stating that while Muslims respect the national song, certain parts of its lyrics cannot be sung by those who follow Islam, as it contradicts their religious beliefs.
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