Kanpur, July 17: The proposed bill that prescribes punishment for disrespecting ‘Vande Mataram‘ has drawn sharp criticism from the Sunni Ulema Council and the All India Jamiat-ul-Awam. Haji Shalis, the General Secretary of the Sunni Ulema Council, accused the government of engaging in politics of religious polarization. Meanwhile, Mahboob Alam, General Secretary of the All India Jamiat-ul-Awam, stated that while the law should be respected, it is inappropriate to impose any religious expression on a community.
Haji Shalis expressed in an interview that the government is continually raising issues that foster religious tension and hatred within society. He emphasized that since India’s independence, no Muslim has opposed those singing ‘Vande Mataram.’ The Muslim community’s choice not to recite it is not a sign of protest but rather a matter of religious belief. The principle of Tawhid, or the worship of one God, is central to Islam, and Muslims worship only Allah. Some individuals within the community refrain from reciting ‘Vande Mataram’ due to religious interpretations, but this does not equate to disrespect for the nation.
He questioned the necessity of introducing punitive measures for an act that has not been reported as disrespectful. Shalis alleged that the government is diverting attention from real public issues. He pointed out that the government has failed to adequately address unemployment, inflation, border security, and other public interest matters, thus making religious topics the focus of political debate. Religion should remain a matter of personal faith and not be exploited for political gain.
On the other hand, Mahboob Alam asserted that all laws should be respected, as they apply equally to all citizens. Creating an atmosphere that suggests a particular community does not recite ‘Vande Mataram’ is unjust. Muslims respect national songs and symbols like ‘Jana Gana Mana’ and ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha.’ Individuals should have the freedom to make decisions based on their religious beliefs, and no one should be compelled to recite a specific song.
He added that the Muslim community has long requested a reconsideration of the lines of ‘Vande Mataram’ that some do not regard as compatible with their religious beliefs. If any provision threatens the religious freedom of a community, it should undergo extensive discussion. The Constitution of the country grants every citizen the freedom to practice their faith. Therefore, while implementing any law, it is crucial to consider the religious freedoms granted by the Constitution and the sentiments of all communities. If these aspects are balanced, the law could be welcomed.
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