Vande Mataram

Bengal's Muslim community leaders are urging the government to reconsider making 'Vande Mataram' mandatory in madrasas, citing theological concerns. While the community largely complied with previous directives, this order has sparked a more vocal response, with some clerics requesting it be made optional due to faith-based objections.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor questioned the mandatory full recitation of Vande Mataram at every public event, deeming it an "unnecessary imposition." He emphasized that while the national song commands respect, forcing its complete rendition twice during short programs is difficult to justify.

Kerala's opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan criticized the Centre and BJP, calling the full rendition of 'Vande Mataram' an RSS agenda. This follows a controversy where the BJP accused the Kerala Assembly of insulting the national song by not performing its complete version during the Governor's address.

West Bengal's school education department has mandated the singing of 'Vande Mataram' during morning assemblies in state-run schools and madrassas, effective immediately. This directive follows a Union home ministry call to mark 150 years of the national song. Schools are seeking clarification on whether the state song will continue alongside 'Vande Mataram' and the National Anthem.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, discussing key state issues including the Vande Mataram controversy and the Mekedatu project. This marked their first public meeting in over a decade. Vijay also received a guard of honour at Tamil Nadu House. Union Minister Suresh Gopi urged patience for the new CM.

A political controversy has ignited in Kerala following the full recitation of 'Vande Mataram' at a new cabinet's oath-taking. The CPI(M) criticizes the move, citing historical precedents and concerns for pluralism. The BJP retorts, accusing the CPI(M) of insulting the national song and appeasing certain groups. A similar protocol dispute occurred in Tamil Nadu over song sequencing.

A controversy erupted in Tamil Nadu over the recitation order of national and state songs during a swearing-in ceremony. The DMK criticized the Vijay government for prioritizing 'Vande Mataram' over the Tamil invocation song, accusing them of disrespecting Tamil culture and adopting BJP's politics.

Bengal's new BJP government, led by CM Suvendu Adhikari, has swiftly implemented welfare schemes like Annapurna Yojana and Ayushman Bharat. Border fencing, crackdowns on TMC leaders, and mandatory Vande Mataram in schools mark its first 30 days, signaling a significant shift in governance and policy.

West Bengal government has initiated a statewide survey of madrasas to gather comprehensive data on their operations, infrastructure, and legal standing. District magistrates are tasked with submitting detailed reports by July 5, aiming to verify compliance with existing rules and update the sector's database for future planning and welfare measures.