‘No citizen should be forced to follow any slogan or song. The Constitution gives us the freedom to practise our religion. This must be respected’
INDORE — A political row has broken out in Indore after BJP legislator Manoj Patel said that anyone wishing to live in his assembly constituency must chant “Vande Mataram”. The remark was made during a budget meeting of the Indore Municipal Corporation, where a discussion over the song led to a heated exchange.
Patel, who represents the Depalpur constituency, made the statement during a public programme. He said, “If you want to live in my constituency, you will have to say Vande Mataram.” His comment quickly drew strong reactions and has since become a major political issue in the state.
He further added, “Some people say, ‘if you have the courage, make us say Vande Mataram.’ I want to tell them, if they have courage, come and say this in front of me.” He also said that the song played a role during India’s freedom struggle and should be respected by all.
The remarks have been criticised by members of the Muslim community and several organisations, who say such statements go against the Constitution and the right to religious freedom.
A local Muslim leader said, “We respect our country, but we cannot be forced to say something that goes against our religious beliefs.” Another community representative stated, “In Islam, worship is only for Allah. Some lines in Vande Mataram are seen as against this belief, so it cannot be made compulsory.”
Muslim groups have long raised objections to being forced to sing or chant Vande Mataram. They argue that parts of the song describe the nation in a way that conflicts with Islamic teachings, which allow worship only of one God.
A spokesperson from a community organisation said, “No citizen should be forced to follow any slogan or song. The Constitution gives us the freedom to practise our religion. This must be respected.”
Legal experts have also pointed out that courts in India have previously dealt with similar issues and that no one can be compelled to sing a particular song if it goes against their beliefs.
Opposition leaders have criticised Patel’s statement, calling it divisive. One opposition leader said, “This kind of language creates fear among minorities. Leaders should speak in a way that unites people, not divides them.”
Meanwhile, BJP leaders have defended Patel, saying his statement reflects patriotism. A party member said, “Vande Mataram is a symbol of the freedom movement. Respecting it is part of respecting the nation.”
The controversy has once again brought attention to the ongoing debate around nationalism, religious freedom, and the limits of political speech in India.
