mha-directs-states-to-play-vande-mataram-before-national-anthem

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all state governments, Union Territory administrations and Central ministries to strictly follow the protocol of playing or singing Vande Mataram before the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, whenever both are performed at official functions.

 

In a communication dated July 9, the ministry asked Chief Secretaries of states and Secretaries of Central ministries to ensure that all departments and institutions under their jurisdiction comply with the existing guidelines governing the performance of the National Song and the National Anthem.

 

The MHA said the directive was issued to ensure uniform implementation of the prescribed protocol at government events across the country.

 

According to the ministry, whenever both are performed, Vande Mataram must precede Jana Gana Mana. It also stressed that the official script, text and pronunciation of both should be followed accurately to maintain their dignity.

 

The ministry further clarified that if a state or Union Territory has its own official state song, the sequence should be the state song first, followed by Vande Mataram and then the National Anthem.

 

The communication also referred to earlier government guidelines specifying occasions when the National Song and National Anthem should be rendered at the beginning, end or both beginning and end of official ceremonies.

 

The MHA reiterated its earlier decision designating the full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram, lasting about three minutes and ten seconds, as the standard version for major state functions. These include civil investiture ceremonies, the arrival and departure of the President and Governors at formal events, the President's address broadcast on All India Radio and television, and ceremonial flag parades. The government may also direct its use on other official occasions.

 

The ministry instructed authorities to ensure that everyone present stands in attention and maintains silence and respect while the National Song and National Anthem are being performed.

 

It has also asked state governments and Central ministries to circulate the guidelines among government institutions, event organisers, bands and choirs to ensure consistent adherence to the official versions.

 

Meanwhile, the Centre has approved amendments to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, proposing to make insulting or obstructing the singing of Vande Mataram a punishable offence. The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament.