Should Muslim Clerics Withdraw Children from Schools Over Yogi's Directive on Vande Mataram?
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Synopsis
The recent directive from UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath mandating the singing of 'Vande Mataram' in schools has sparked a fierce debate. Maulana Haleem Ullah Kasmi urges the Muslim community to withdraw their children from schools to uphold their faith. This controversy raises questions on religion, education, and national identity in India.
Key Takeaways
- The UP government has mandated 'Vande Mataram' in schools.
- This has led to backlash from the Muslim community.
- Maulana Kasmi has called for withdrawal of Muslim children from schools.
- The directive raises questions about religious freedom.
- Historical parallels can be drawn with previous educational mandates.
Mumbai, Nov 10 (NationPress) A significant political and religious dispute emerged on Monday following the announcement from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who declared that singing 'Vande Mataram' would be compulsory in all educational institutions throughout the state.
In response to this announcement, Maulana Haleem Ullah Kasmi, President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Maharashtra, asserted that Muslims should remove their children from schools instead of forcing them to sing the national anthem.
While addressing the 'Ekta Yatra' and Vande Mataram singing event in Gorakhpur, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath remarked, "There should be a sense of respect for the national song Vande Mataram. We will make its singing mandatory in every educational institution across Uttar Pradesh to instill a sense of reverence and respect for Bharat Mata and Matrubhoomi in everyone.
This directive, which the Chief Minister aimed at promoting patriotism and unity, faced opposition from segments of the Muslim community.
In reaction to the resolution, Maulana Haleem Ullah Kasmi stated to IANS, "As Muslims, our Constitution grants us the liberty to practice our faith. If anything contradicts our beliefs, our Constitution does not endorse it. Thus, we will reject any imposition that opposes our religion under any circumstances.
"Our faith teaches us that there is only one Allah, and we will worship Him alone. Deviating from this would mean compromising our identity as Muslims. Regarding our nation, Muslims have consistently shown respect for it. The current situation surrounding Vande Mataram is merely a tactic to oppress Muslims," he added.
Kasmi emphasized that Muslim children would abstain from participating in the singing of Vande Mataram and asserted that if the government insisted on enforcing this directive, the community would pull their children out of schools entirely.
"Our children will not sing Vande Mataram in schools. The government has targeted us with various laws. This pressure to sing Vande Mataram is solely intended to harass Muslims," he continued.
Drawing a comparison to a prior controversy, Kasmi recalled, "When the UP government made Surya Namaskar mandatory in schools, Maulana Ali Miyan Nadwi urged all Muslims to withdraw their children from such institutions. I am issuing the same call now. It is better for children to remain uneducated than to lose their faith."
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the delicate balance between fostering patriotism and respecting religious beliefs in a diverse country like India. The ongoing debate surrounding Yogi Adityanath's directive on 'Vande Mataram' encapsulates broader concerns about inclusivity and the potential alienation of minority communities. It is crucial that dialogue continues to ensure mutual respect and understanding among all citizens.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the controversy surrounding 'Vande Mataram'?
The controversy arose after UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath mandated the singing of 'Vande Mataram' in schools, leading to opposition from the Muslim community.
Who is Maulana Haleem Ullah Kasmi?
Maulana Haleem Ullah Kasmi is the President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Maharashtra, who has publicly opposed the compulsory singing of 'Vande Mataram' in schools.
What are the implications of this directive?
The directive raises concerns about religious freedom and may lead to increased tensions between different communities in India.
What has been the response from the Muslim community?
Many within the Muslim community, including Maulana Kasmi, have suggested withdrawing children from schools instead of complying with the mandate.
How does this relate to previous controversies?
This situation echoes past incidents, such as when Surya Namaskar was mandated in schools, leading to similar calls from Muslim leaders.
