Government Explores Formal Protocols for Vande Mataram Similar to National Anthem
In a significant development, the Ministry of Home Affairs recently convened a high-level meeting to examine and debate potential protocols for the recitation of the national song Vande Mataram, drawing parallels with the established rules for the national anthem Jana Gana Mana. This discussion marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to elevate the status of the national song within the country's patriotic framework.
Historical Context and Current Status
Written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Vande Mataram emerged as a powerful rallying cry during the Swadeshi movement from 1905 to 1908, becoming deeply intertwined with India's freedom struggle. While the Constituent Assembly granted the song equal honour and respect alongside the national anthem, it currently lacks any compulsory etiquette, posture, or legal requirements for its singing or recitation. This absence of formal guidelines has led to varied practices across the nation.
Key Discussion Points in the MHA Meeting
The meeting, which included senior officials from various ministries, focused on several critical questions:
- Whether specific rules or instructions should be formulated regarding the circumstances under which the national song may be sung.
- Whether Vande Mataram should be sung alongside the national anthem during official functions and events.
- Whether acts of disrespect towards the national song should attract penalties, similar to those for the national anthem.
An MHA spokesperson did not respond to queries about the meeting, maintaining a veil of confidentiality around the deliberations.
Legal Framework and Constitutional Differences
The national anthem enjoys explicit constitutional and statutory protection under Article 51A(a) of the Constitution, which places a fundamental duty on citizens to respect it. Detailed executive orders issued by the MHA govern its recitation and use, including mandatory standing during its full version at official functions and a ban on dramatised or altered versions.
In contrast, Vande Mataram does not have similar constitutional or statutory backing. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which prescribes penalties for preventing the singing of the national anthem or causing disturbances, does not extend to the national song. In 2022, the Centre informed the Supreme Court that no instructions have been issued so far regarding the circumstances for singing or playing Vande Mataram.
Political Implications and Historical Debates
Vande Mataram has increasingly become a focal point in political and historical debates, particularly around questions of nationalism and identity. The ruling BJP has described the current deliberations as part of an effort to elevate the song's standing, accusing the Congress of having diminished it through appeasement politics. This charge relates to the omission of four of the song's six stanzas during the Congress session in 1937, with the later verses portraying the motherland as a goddess-like figure, which some felt might not resonate with citizens of all faiths.
During a heated parliamentary debate last year, Home Minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of suppressing Vande Mataram's glory, alleging that this approach contributed to policies that led to India's Partition. The Congress, in response, has accused the BJP of distorting history for political gains, particularly with an eye on elections in states like West Bengal.
Ongoing Celebrations and Future Steps
The government's move coincides with a year-long celebration of Vande Mataram, launched by the Centre. The celebration is structured in phases:
- The first phase was completed in November.
- The second phase is scheduled for this month.
- The third phase is planned for August 2026.
- The fourth phase will conclude in November 2026.
This initiative underscores the government's commitment to honouring the national song and integrating it more formally into the nation's patriotic rituals.
As the discussions progress, the potential establishment of protocols for Vande Mataram could reshape how the national song is perceived and practiced across India, bringing it closer to the reverence accorded to the national anthem.
