‘Heavens will not fall if Vande Mataram is sung in madrasas’: Calcutta High Court

Calcutta High Court says 'heavens will not fall' if Vande Mataram is sung in madrasas

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday observed that "heavens will not fall" if Vande Mataram is sung in madrasas, making the remark during the hearing of a petition concerning the rendition of the national song in educational institutions.

The bench noted that Vande Mataram occupies an important place in India's freedom movement and national heritage, while examining issues raised in the petition.

"Heavens will not fall if Vande Mataram is sung in madrasas," the court remarked during the proceedings.

Petition before the court

The matter relates to a plea concerning the singing of Vande Mataram in madrasas and the implementation of related directives in educational institutions across West Bengal.

During the hearing, the court sought to balance constitutional values, educational policy and the significance of national symbols, while hearing submissions from the parties involved.

Debate over national song

The issue has often generated political and legal debate in India, with supporters arguing that singing Vande Mataram reflects respect for the nation's history and cultural heritage.

Others have maintained that any directive concerning the national song must be consistent with constitutional protections, including freedom of religion and individual rights.

Case to continue

The High Court did not deliver a final verdict on the merits of the petition during the hearing. Instead, it made its observations while considering the arguments presented by both sides.

The matter is expected to come up for further hearing, with the court likely to examine the legal and constitutional aspects before issuing its final order.

The proceedings are being closely watched in West Bengal, where the issue has attracted attention from political parties, educational institutions and civil society groups.