Bhopal, Feb 12 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, expressed his approval on Thursday for the Union government's directive concerning the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ and the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’. He announced that this order would be put into action in the state without delay.

Yadav characterized the Union Ministry of Home Affairs' decision as pivotal, stating that it would enhance national unity and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the struggle for freedom.

In a message directed to the citizens, he noted, “Fellow residents of Madhya Pradesh and the nation, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Home Affairs has resolved to honorably sing all six stanzas of Vande Mataram prior to the national anthem Jana Gana Mana. We are set to implement this in Madhya Pradesh.”

He extended his gratitude towards the Prime Minister, saying, “We are privileged that Prime Minister Modi has determined that the complete Vande Mataram will be sung. The Madhya Pradesh government endorses this decision, and we are taking immediate action.”

The order issued by the Union Home Ministry on January 28 mandates that all six stanzas of Vande Mataram be sung at official functions. When both the national song and the national anthem are performed together, Vande Mataram will be sung first.

The directive further clarifies that the national song will be performed during events such as the arrival and departure of the President and Governors at government functions, before and after the President’s address to the nation broadcasted on All India Radio and television, as well as during the hoisting of the national flag.

Additionally, Vande Mataram will be featured at civilian award ceremonies, including the Padma awards, and during events involving the President. It will also be played in public venues like cinema halls, although standing will not be obligatory in such cases.

Previously, only the first two stanzas of the song were commonly sung, following a decision made during the pre-independence era, which was later acknowledged in the Constituent Assembly after certain groups raised objections regarding particular references in the lyrics.

This directive coincides with the Union government celebrating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. A special discussion was conducted during the Winter Session of Parliament in 2025 to honor this milestone.

According to the existing law, any individual who intentionally obstructs others from showing respect towards the national anthem, and now the national song as specified, could face imprisonment for up to three years.