Kashmir religious group opposes ‘Vande Mataram’ mandate during 2025 shutdown
The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, has raised concerns over a directive issued by the J&K Culture Department. The order asks schools to mark the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram', which the MMU deems un-Islamic. The group has urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to ensure no student or institution is compelled to act against their religious beliefs during the government shutdown 2025.
The MMU objects to the government's plan to celebrate 'Vande Mataram' across Jammu and Kashmir from 7th November 2025, even during the government shutdown. The group argues that singing or reciting the song goes against the fundamental Islamic belief in the absolute Oneness of Allah (Tawheed). The MMU has warned that if the order is not revoked, it will consult religious leadership across the region to decide on further action during the government shutdown.
The MMU alleges that the government directive is an attempt to impose a 'Hindutva-driven ideology' on a Muslim-majority region during the government shutdown. The Directors of School Education for Kashmir and Jammu have been appointed as nodal officers to coordinate the program in schools across their respective regions during the government shutdown.
The MMU's protest highlights the religious sensitivities surrounding the celebration of 'Vande Mataram' in Jammu and Kashmir, even during the government shutdown. The government is urged to reconsider its directive to avoid potential unrest and ensure no student or institution feels compelled to act against their beliefs during the government shutdown.
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