Circular on ‘Vande Mataram’ Violates Article 25 of the Constitution; Attempt to Curtail Religious Freedom
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind States Its unequivocal stand
New Delhi, 12 February 2026: Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind General Secretary Maulana Hakimuddin Qasmi has expressed grave concern over the circular issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding Vande Mataram, stating that the move amounts to curtailing the religious freedom guaranteed under Article 25 of the Constitution of India.
He stated that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the inalienable right to profess, practice, and propagate his or her religion, and to live in accordance with one’s faith and conscience.
Therefore, compelling any individual to recite a specific poem or composition that conflicts with his or her religious beliefs is contrary to the spirit and provisions of the Constitution.
Maulana Qasmi pointed out that the complete text of Vande Mataram, particularly the fourth and fifth stanzas, contains references to idol vandana and certain Hindu deities. In light of the Islamic doctrine of Tawhid (Oneness of God), a Muslim cannot offer reverence or expressions of worship to anyone other than Allah. Any such act would contradict the fundamental tenets of Islamic faith.
He further clarified that Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind is not opposed to the poem per se. If the majority community wishes to recite it, they are fully entitled to do so, and the organization does not stand in their way.
However, making it mandatory for all citizens, or encouraging or compelling school children to recite it, would amount to imposing restrictions on religious freedom.
India is a pluralistic and multi-religious nation where constitutional supremacy and the principle of “unity in diversity” form the foundation of national integration. Any step that weakens this foundation cannot be in the interest of the country.
The Muslims of India hold a unanimous and unequivocal position that any decision undermining religious freedom will not be accepted.
We strongly urge the Government of India to review the said circular in light of constitutional provisions, judicial precedents, and the diverse social fabric of the nation, so that religious liberty, constitutional dignity, and social harmony may be preserved.
As far as love for the nation is concerned, it is part of our religious duty. We have always loved our country and will continue to do so.
However, any expression that falls within the domain of worship cannot be accepted, as the Constitution itself guarantees us the right to practice our faith freely. It is on the strength of this constitutional guarantee that the country remains united like a wall reinforced with steel.
