New Delhi, July 31, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Friday objected to the passage of an amendment Bill in Parliament that makes alleged disrespect to ‘Vande Mataram’ a punishable offence, describing the move as contrary to the constitutional principles of religious freedom and secularism.
In a statement, AIMPLB spokesperson S.Q.R. Ilyas said patriotism should not be measured by reciting any particular slogan or song and argued that making ‘Vande Mataram’ legally mandatory amounted to coercion and an infringement of citizens’ religious freedom.
He maintained that while love for one’s country and worship of the country are distinct concepts, no citizen should be compelled through legislation to participate in expressions that may conflict with personal religious beliefs.
Referring to constitutional provisions, Ilyas said Article 25 guarantees every citizen the freedom to profess and practise religion, while Article 19 protects freedom of expression. He argued that these rights imply that individuals cannot be forced to adopt any song, slogan, ideology or symbol against their conscience or faith.
The AIMPLB spokesperson said Muslims love their country and consider patriotism a civic and moral responsibility, but added that they could not regard the nation as a deity or goddess in keeping with their religious beliefs.
He urged the Union government to refrain from pursuing what he described as sensitive and divisive measures and instead focus on issues such as unemployment, inflation, poverty, education, healthcare, economic inequality and social justice.
According to Ilyas, a strong and united India can only be built by ensuring equal dignity, justice and freedom for all citizens while safeguarding constitutional values, religious liberty and fundamental rights.
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