Context:
A renewed political and constitutional debate has emerged over Vande Mataram, focusing on its historical evolution, selective rendition, and present constitutional status. The discussion has gained momentum ahead of the proposed 150th anniversary celebrations of Vande Mataram on November 7, 2025, raising concerns about the government’s intent regarding national symbols and constitutional values.
Key Highlights:
Historical Background of Vande Mataram
- Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay during the freedom struggle.
- Became a symbol of anti-colonial nationalism.
- In 1937, the Congress Working Committee (CWC)—including Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad—resolved that only the first two stanzas be sung at official Congress events.
- The decision aimed to address objections from Muslim leaders to later stanzas with religious imagery.
Constitutional Position
- The Constituent Assembly chose Jana Gana Mana as the National Anthem.
- Vande Mataram was accorded the status of National Song, enjoying equal respect, but not identical legal treatment.
Legal and Judicial Developments
- Article 51A (Fundamental Duties) introduced by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) mandates respect for the Constitution, National Flag, and National Anthem.
- The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 penalizes disrespect to the National Anthem, but does not cover the National Song.
- Madras High Court (2017): Directed Tamil Nadu schools to sing Vande Mataram at least once a week.
- Delhi High Court: Government clarified that both the National Anthem and National Song deserve equal respect.
Contemporary Political Debate
- Allegations raised in Parliament about “mutilation” of Vande Mataram.
- Prime Minister’s remarks seen as indirectly questioning the 1937 CWC resolution, despite its endorsement by key nationalist leaders.
- Concerns about a possible parliamentary resolution altering the status of the National Song.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Contestation over national symbols and their constitutional recognition
- Causes: Historical compromises during freedom struggle; religious sensitivities
- Government Initiatives: National commemorations; promotion of patriotic duties
- Benefits:
- Reinforces national unity and cultural heritage
- Encourages constitutional patriotism
- Challenges:
- Risk of politicisation of national symbols
- Potential erosion of pluralistic consensus
- Impact:
- Implications for civil liberties, minority rights, and constitutional morality
Relevant Mains Points:
- National Song vs National Anthem:
- Anthem enjoys explicit legal protection
- Song enjoys symbolic and moral recognition
- Key Concepts:
- Constitutional morality
- Composite nationalism
- Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)
- Static Linkages:
- Constituent Assembly debates
- Freedom struggle consensus-building
- Way Forward:
- Uphold historical context and constitutional intent
- Avoid legislative or executive actions that polarise national symbols
- Promote inclusive nationalism rooted in constitutional values
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS 1: Modern Indian history, freedom movement symbolism
- GS 2: Constitution, fundamental duties, governance and rights
- Prelims: Constitutional articles, acts, historical resolutions