Ruhullah Says Singing Vande Mataram Cannot Be Compulsory | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: National Conference MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Monday sparked a sharp exchange in the Lok Sabha after warning that forcing citizens to sing Vande Mataram violates constitutional freedoms and undermines India’s plural ethos.

Speaking during a discussion on the national song, the Srinagar MP said that while no community opposes Vande Mataram or disrespects it, the problem arises “only when it is said that people must sing it to prove their loyalty or claim their place in the country”.

He argued that religious freedom is an “eternal identity” protected by the Constitution and cannot be overridden by demands for conformity. “You say it is a national song; we respect that, and we stand up for respect. But you want us to sing it — that is not possible,” he told the House.

Ruhullah drew a distinction between civic identity and religious identity, saying nationality is temporary while faith remains constant. He cited examples of citizens who renounced Indian citizenship but retained their religion, emphasising that constitutional freedoms allow individuals to follow their beliefs without coercion.

Ruhullah said the debate around Vande Mataram was being used to distract from unemployment, inflation and governance failures. He alleged that Muslims were being targeted “to hide incompetence” and said communities across India were united in their basic demands for clean water, clean air and jobs.

Ruhullah maintained that all communities had contributed to India’s freedom struggle and would continue defending its democratic values. “We have given blood for this country. If we have to fight for freedom again, we will,” he concluded.