AIMIM leader Waris Pathan opposed making Vande Mataram recitation compulsory in Maharashtra. He said Muslims respect the national song. However, he claimed some parts conflict with Islamic beliefs. Pathan said followers of Islam cannot recite those specific lines. He added that doing so would go against their religious principles.
Pathan made these remarks after the National Honour Prevention Amendment Bill, 2026 reached Rajya Sabha on July 24. The proposed bill aims to provide Vande Mataram similar legal protection as the national anthem.
AIMIM Says It Respects National Song But Opposes Compulsion
While speaking with news agency IANS, Waris Pathan said AIMIM respects Vande Mataram. However, he highlighted concerns over certain verses within the song.
Pathan said, “We respect Vande Mataram and honour it.” He added that some lines create religious restrictions for Muslims. According to him, reciting those lines becomes shirk under Islamic beliefs. He said Muslims worship only Allah and will never worship anyone else.
Furthermore, Pathan referred to Article 25 and said it protects this constitutional right. He also claimed the Supreme Court has upheld this principle.
Pathan Questions Action Against Those Not Reciting Song
Waris Pathan questioned possible action against people who do not sing the national song. He said respecting the country differs from mandatory singing.
Additionally, he accused BJP and RSS of intimidating people over this issue. Pathan asked what action authorities would take if someone refused Vande Mataram.
He said, “Will you hang me? Will you shoot me?” Pathan added that BJP and RSS only try to threaten people.
Leader Differentiates National Anthem And National Song
Pathan explained the difference between the national anthem and national song. He said AIMIM fully respects and recites the national anthem.
According to him, citizens cannot face pressure to recite Vande Mataram. He said such compulsion would violate democracy and constitutional values.
Pathan stated, “We sing Jana Gana Mana with full respect.” He added that the Supreme Court recognised the national anthem as mandatory, while Vande Mataram remains different.
Pathan Rejects Claims Against Muslims Over Vande Mataram
Pathan alleged that Muslims often face unfair criticism for refusing certain verses. He said some people label them anti-national because of religious restrictions.
Moreover, he highlighted sacrifices made by Muslims during India’s freedom struggle. Pathan said religious beliefs should not decide someone’s patriotism.
He stated that accusing Muslims of lacking nationalism is wrong. Pathan questioned how many BJP leaders could recite Vande Mataram without reading from a teleprompter.
