Kiren Rijiju Defends Vande Mataram, Says National Song Must Be Respected by All Amid AIMPLB Opposition

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday asserted that Vande Mataram is a symbol of national unity and should be respected by every citizen, responding to objections raised by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) over proposals to make the song mandatory.

Speaking on the controversy, Rijiju said, “Vande Mataram is the national anthem of the whole of India. It is not the anthem of any state or religion. It is the national anthem. The national anthem should be respected by all.”

The remarks come amid a growing debate over the role of Vande Mataram in educational institutions and public functions. While supporters argue that the song represents India's freedom struggle and national identity, critics have raised concerns over making its recitation compulsory.

Rijiju emphasized that respect for national symbols transcends religious and regional identities, reiterating the government's commitment to fostering national unity and patriotism.

The issue has sparked political reactions across the spectrum, with parties and organizations weighing in on the balance between constitutional freedoms and respect for national symbols.