The West Bengal government has issued a directive making it mandatory for all 4.8 lakh students studying in 614 recognised madrasas across the state to sing 'Vande Mataram' during assembly prayers. The order, signed by the director of madrasa education, applies to government model madrasas, government-aided madrasas, and recognised unaided madrasas. Currently closed for summer vacation, the madrasas will implement the instruction immediately after classes resume.
Details of the Order
The directive specifies that singing 'Vande Mataram' during assembly prayers before the commencement of classes is compulsory. According to sources in the West Bengal Board of Madrasa Education, many madrasas already begin the day with prayers that include the National Anthem and a short speech on the nation. The new order adds 'Vande Mataram' to this routine.
Support from Officials
Kshudiram Tudu, the state's minority affairs and madrasa education minister, justified the decision by drawing a parallel with state-run schools where Santhali is the medium of instruction. He argued that if 'Vande Mataram' is compulsory in those schools, it should also be mandatory in madrasas.
Muzaffar Ahmed, headmaster of the Malda Model School, confirmed receipt of the order and stated it would be implemented the day classes resume after summer vacation. He emphasised that following government orders is a primary duty and that 'Vande Mataram' has no connection with religion.
Rashidul Haque, former member of the Coochbehar Suktabari Ekramia Madrasa board and head of staff, noted that all 1,700 students at his institution will sing 'Vande Mataram' when classes resume. He remarked that Islam teaches obedience to the law of the land and that students already sing the National Anthem.
Controversy and Criticism
The decision has sparked controversy. Tarunkanti Naskar, general secretary of the Save Education Committee, criticised the move, alleging it reflects a political agenda. He expressed doubt about the government's intention in making the song mandatory in all government-aided institutions, particularly madrasas.
The order has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a step toward national integration and others questioning its necessity and timing.
