MMU Terms Vande Mataram Directive ‘Un-Islamic’, Urges Govt to Respect Religious Freedom in Jammu & Kashmir
The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), a conglomerate of several key Muslim religious organisations in Jammu and Kashmir led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday said singing or reciting Vande Mataram is “un-Islamic” as the song contains praising words in contrast to the basic Islamic belief that Allah is one.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) November 6: An amalgam of Muslim religious organisations on Saturday expressed serious concern over a recent government direction that had sought to make singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in the schools. It described the move as a “coercive directive” issued by the Union Territory’s Department of Culture for all students and staff to participate in musical and cultural programmes on the 150th year of the national song. The MMU called the order "oppressive, unwarranted and un-Islamic".
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Leads Opposition
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the Kashmiri Separatist leader who heads the Mirpur-based Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), was at the forefront of those challenging the order. The MMU labelled the direction as oppressive, adding that it compels Muslim students and institutions to go against their religious beliefs.
The MMU says, while Muslims are encouraged to love and serve their country of residence, they must do so by making a positive contribution – not engaging in activities they feel goes against their religion.
The statement said, "The MMU, headed by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, expresses serious concern over the recent directive issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Government's Department of Culture instructing schools across the region to commemorate the 150th year of Vande Mataram through organised musical and cultural programs ensuring participation of all students and staff."
Appeal for Respecting Religious Sensitivities
The MMU was known to have a region-wide reach and the capacity to bring religious figures together on critical issues.
The organisation reiterated that they are firmly against it only on religious principles and asserted that religious freedom is of paramount importance, as well as respect for all communities.
The state administration has not given out any order on MMU's objections and prayers for withdrawal so far.
The MMU ended by emphasizing that the government should take into account sensitivity of all religions in making such issuance and encourage respect for diversity in restoring Unity among Malaysians.
Historical Significance of Vande Mataram
Written for the first time in 1875, and later included in Bankim Chandra’s well-known novel Anandamath, Vande Mataram had been a war cry during India’s fight for independence. It was given the status of the national song of India when it became independent in 1947.
Nationwide Celebrations Mark 150 Years of Vande Mataram
The Union cabinet on October 1 resolved to commemorate Vande Mataram for 150 years at national level. Vande Mataram of Bankimchandra Chatterji had been declared a national song by the Constituent Assembly.
As per the circular released by Centre, schools in states will organise special assemblies during October 21 to November 7,2025 which will see teachers and students singing Vande Mataram. But, a dissenting voice over the Government order has emerged from J&K.
