New Delhi (India) May 14: All the government and government-aided schools in West Bengal have been asked to make the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in morning assembly meetings with immediate effect, the School Education department announced in an official communication. 

According to the communication, all the students will be singing the national song at the beginning of each day. All heads of institutions have been directed to strictly follow it.

CM Congratulates Students After Exam Results

The announcement was made by the Chief Minister while addressing students and the gathering after the announcement of the results of Class 12 examinations and it is expected to take place from Monday. He also congratulated all the students who have qualified themselves in the Higher Secondary examinations and said they must march ahead in life with the confidence and principles drawn from Indian thinkers.

“I want to congratulate all those who have passed class 12 exams. They should all move ahead in life inspired by the vision of Swami Vivekananda. I would like to send my best wishes to the future generation. From Monday, all schools should sing Vande Mataram. I shall reach secretariat and issue an order,” Adhikari said.

Schools To Record Assemblies For Monitoring

As per the communication released on May 13, the Director of Education informed the school heads that they must sing the national anthem in the beginning of the day, before classes begin. A few officers in the department also revealed that the schools will also have to record the meetings they held to showcase their correct implementation.

Centre Pushes Stronger Respect For National Symbols

This step is being taken in view of the Union Government's move to intensify and strengthen all the provisions relating to respects for national symbols which has also prompted the latter to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 to include punishment for anyone obstructing the singing of Vande Mataram.