All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi has asserted that the song 'Vande Matram' cannot be treated on par with the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana'. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Owaisi emphasized that the Constitution does not accord the same status to 'Vande Matram' as it does to the national anthem.
Constitutional Distinction
Owaisi pointed out that while 'Jana Gana Mana' is the national anthem, 'Vande Matram' is merely a national song. He argued that equating the two would be a misinterpretation of the Constitution. The AIMIM leader stressed that the national anthem has a specific legal status and protocol, which does not apply to 'Vande Matram'.
Historical Context
The song 'Vande Matram', written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, played a significant role during India's independence movement. However, Owaisi noted that its adoption as a national song does not grant it the same constitutional recognition as the national anthem. He urged lawmakers to respect the constitutional framework and avoid conflating the two.
Secular Principles
Owaisi also highlighted the secular nature of the Indian Constitution, which respects all religions. He argued that forcing the singing of 'Vande Matram' in schools or public events could be seen as coercive, particularly for those who have religious objections. Citing the Supreme Court's 2016 judgment, he reiterated that the national anthem alone is mandatory, while 'Vande Matram' is optional.
Political Reactions
The statement drew sharp reactions from ruling party members, who accused Owaisi of being unpatriotic. However, Owaisi defended his position, stating that patriotism should not be measured by the singing of a particular song. He called for a rational debate on the issue, free from emotional rhetoric.
In conclusion, Owaisi's remarks have reignited the debate over the status of 'Vande Matram' in India's secular framework. The issue remains contentious, with differing interpretations of constitutional provisions and historical significance.
