Haryana Minister Says Singing 'Vande Mataram' Mandatory to Live in India

Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij said on May 8, 2026, that anyone who wishes to live in India must sing 'Vande Mataram', asserting the national song holds equal importance to the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana'. Speaking to reporters in Ambala, Vij said respect for 'Vande Mataram' is non-negotiable and fundamental to Indian identity.

Vij made the remarks in response to Asaduddin Owaisi, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, who recently stated that 'Vande Mataram' cannot be considered on par with 'Jana Gana Mana'. Vij rejected that view, emphasizing that the song, adopted as India's national song in 1937, carries the same emotional and patriotic weight as the anthem.

Separately, Vij expressed confidence in a BJP sweep in upcoming municipal corporation elections across three Haryana districts, citing a nationwide 'BJP wave' evident in recent electoral shifts in Bengal and Assam. He claimed the momentum is now extending to Punjab, where elections are due in 2027, and said Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's criticisms of the party reflect growing political pressure.

The comments by Vij have reignited debate over the role of national symbols in civic life, with opposition figures likely to challenge the conflation of patriotism with mandatory song recitation. The issue is expected to remain a flashpoint in the run-up to upcoming state elections.