West Bengal’s school education department issues a directive making the singing of “Vande Mataram” compulsory during morning assemblies in state-run schools and madrassas. The order takes effect immediately and applies to institutions covered under the West Bengal Madrasah Education Board as well as schools. The government cites a Union Home Ministry call related to marking 150 years of the national song, and notes that “Vande Mataram” has received a status equal to the national anthem earlier this year.
Several reports say the instructions require every student to participate at the start of the school day, and that heads of institutions are told to ensure strict compliance. Some schools already begin implementing the directive, while others seek clarification on whether “Vande Mataram” should be sung alongside the national anthem (“Jana Gana Mana”) and the state song (“Banglar mati Banglar jal”). Confusion is reported as administrators look for guidance on the sequencing or inclusion of state and national songs. The measure is issued shortly after the BJP-led government takes office in the state, following Chief Minister Mamata Adhikari’s May 9 oath.
