AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan opposed making the recitation of 'Vande Mataram' compulsory, saying certain lyrics conflict with Islamic beliefs. Citing Article 25, he argued that respecting the national song should not require mandatory recitation and criticised the BJP and RSS
NDA leaders on Tuesday slammed AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan’s opposition to the proposed Vande Mataram Bill, insisting that respect for the national song is a matter of duty and responsibility. While BJP leaders called Pathan’s remarks misleading and divisive, Samajwadi Party and Congress leaders urged caution and constitutional balance.