Mumbai, February 12: In a sharp rebuttal to government guidelines mandating the singing of ‘Vande Mataram,’ AIMIM leader Waris Pathan asserted that no one can be compelled to chant the patriotic song. Speaking exclusively to reporters in Mumbai, Pathan emphasized respect for the anthem but drew a firm line against coercion.
‘We hold ‘Vande Mataram’ in high regard, but forcing anyone to sing it is fundamentally wrong,’ Pathan declared. He invoked Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees every individual the freedom to profess, practice, and propagate their religion. ‘Muslims find certain lines in the song incompatible with their faith, and no one should be pressured into actions that conflict with their beliefs,’ he added.
Pathan contrasted this with the national anthem, noting that citizens stand in respect and sing it willingly. Labeling someone ‘anti-national’ for not singing ‘Vande Mataram’ is unjust, he argued, questioning who has the authority to judge patriotism based on religious lines.
Turning to broader political critiques, Pathan accused the BJP of spreading hatred through such mandates. ‘They just want to incite division,’ he said bluntly.
On the UN report linking Lashkar-e-Taiba to the Red Fort blast, Pathan reiterated his stance against terrorism. ‘Terrorists must face the harshest punishment,’ he stated, highlighting Pakistan’s role in attacks like Pulwama, 26/11, and Pahalgam. He questioned India’s decision to play cricket matches against Pakistan despite known terror links, urging the government to prioritize national security over sports diplomacy.
Criticizing Mumbai’s mayor, a BJP member, for comments on Bangladeshi infiltrators, Pathan urged focus on civic issues like pollution and potholes. ‘Her priority should be improving Mumbai’s infrastructure, not fanning communal flames without solid data,’ he remarked.
Addressing the Latur incident, Pathan lamented the rising hostility towards Muslims, attributing it to inflammatory statements from BJP leaders. He demanded strict action against hate-mongers to restore communal harmony.