The Supreme Court has sought a response from the Centre over a petition challenging the mandatory singing of six stanzas of Vande Mataram. Singer T. M. Krishna filed the petition against the law. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the central government.
Meanwhile, the Solicitor General said laws should not follow the views of Naxals. Senior advocate Dr. S. Muralidhar strongly objected to this statement. He demanded a withdrawal and called the remark unnecessary during a live hearing. He added that legal officers should maintain certain standards.
Heated Arguments During Supreme Court Hearing
During the proceedings, Tushar Mehta and Muralidhar exchanged sharp arguments. Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that the court had not considered that aspect. Later, Mehta said he could repeat his statement. He added that everyone must follow the law.
However, Muralidhar again opposed the statement. He said he needed to register a strong objection. Senior advocate Sanjay Hegde also said that thinking differently does not mean someone supports Naxalism. Furthermore, Justice Joymalya Bagchi highlighted constitutional values. He said even a person accused of terrorism receives equal rights under the Constitution.
TM Krishna Challenges Vande Mataram Singing Rule
TM Krishna, a Magsaysay Award winner and Kannada musician, challenged the rule in the Supreme Court. He questioned the requirement to sing the complete national song. According to Krishna, the four additional stanzas have a religious character.
Additionally, the petition challenges punishment provisions related to disrespect towards the national song. Krishna has approached the court against these requirements.
Court Sets Date For Next Hearing
The Supreme Court said deciding the national song remains outside its role. However, the court agreed to examine the punishment provisions. The bench handed the petition copy to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.
The court asked the Centre to present its response in the matter. Therefore, the next hearing will take place on 12 October.
