Nation Is Not a Goddess

‘Nation Is Not a Goddess’: Owaisi Objects to Centre Equating ‘Vande Mataram’ With ‘Jana Gana Mana’

Asaduddin Owaisi has strongly criticised the Centre’s reported proposal to place ‘Vande Mataram’ on par with the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’, arguing that patriotism cannot

be linked to religious symbolism.

Speaking on the controversy, the AIMIM chief stated, “The nation is not a goddess,” while objecting to references in later stanzas of ‘Vande Mataram’ that invoke Hindu deities such as Durga. Owaisi argued that equating the song with the national anthem could alienate citizens from minority communities and violate the secular principles of the Constitution.

The remarks came after reports emerged that the Union government is considering granting statutory protection to ‘Vande Mataram’ similar to the protection enjoyed by ‘Jana Gana Mana’ under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The proposal reportedly includes compulsory recitation of all six stanzas during official functions and in educational institutions.

Owaisi said respect for the nation should not be measured through compulsory singing or symbolic religious imagery. He maintained that India’s constitutional identity is based on citizenship and democratic values, not devotional worship. According to AIMIM leaders, forcing people to sing verses they consider religiously incompatible would infringe upon individual liberty and freedom of conscience.

The Hyderabad MP also referred to historical debates surrounding the song, noting that only the first two stanzas had previously received broader acceptance because later portions contain overtly religious references. He accused the Centre of attempting to politicise nationalism ahead of key political contests.

The controversy has sparked a nationwide political debate. Supporters of the move argue that ‘Vande Mataram’ played a historic role during India’s freedom struggle and deserves equal honour alongside the national anthem. Critics, however, warn that making recitation compulsory could deepen communal tensions and trigger constitutional challenges.

Meanwhile, several opposition leaders and minority organisations have backed calls for the government to reconsider the proposal, while nationalist groups have defended the move as a tribute to India’s cultural heritage.

Report by Y-Trendz.

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