MMU objects to ‘Vande Mataram’ singing competition in J&K

The Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), an amalgam of over two dozen religious groups, on Wednesday (December 31, 2025) objected to a singing competition on Vande Mataram being organised by certain government departments in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a joint statement, the MMU said, “Expressions and anthems carrying devotional and theological meanings rooted in non-Islamic belief systems raise serious concerns for people who adhere to Islamic monotheistic faith.”

The MMU objected to the circulation and promotion of publicity material related to a singing competition themed on Vande Mataram by certain government departments.

“In view of this well established religious position in Islam, the MMU advises all those whose religious conscience is guided by Islamic teachings to respectfully refrain from participating in such programmes,” the statement said.

It added that Islam strictly regulates religious expressions and “does not permit participation in acts that symbolically or verbally sanctify or deify any created entity”.

The MMU also said that local newspapers were reproducing and promoting such publicity material “without due sensitivity to the religious identity and faith boundaries of J&K, a region historically known for respect for religious conscience and sensitivities”.

The statement said respect for religious belief and conscience “is essential for social harmony and coexistence” and appealed to all concerned institutions to exercise greater cultural and religious sensitivity in public communication and outreach.

The MMU comprises senior religious leaders including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Mufti Azam Nasir-ul-Islam, Maulana Muhammad Rahmatullah Qasmi, Aga Syed Hasan Al-Mousavi Al-Safvi, Dr. Adil Latif Al-Kandi, Maulana Ghulam Rasool Hami, Aga Syed Muhammad Hadi, and Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari.

Meanwhile, Mr. Farooq also expressed concern over growing attacks on Kashmiri shawl sellers outside Jammu and Kashmir.

“Very disturbing. Despite assurances by those at the helm, harassment of Kashmiris continues, unchecked and unpunished. This must stop immediately. This is a basic human rights issue of safety, security and dignity which is the obligation of the rulers which they must fulfil,” Mr. Farooq said.

CPI(M) leader and legislator M.Y. Tarigami sought the intervention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. “Disturbing videos show Kashmiri shawl vendors being harassed in several northern States, targeted for their identity. Many are now planning to return early, putting their livelihoods at risk. Requesting the Home Minister to intervene and ensure their safety,” Mr. Tarigami said.

Peoples Democratic Party leader Iltija Mufti said a fresh video “of an innocent Kashmiri man being dehumanised, humiliated, and thrashed only because he refuses to chant Vande Mataram” has emerged from Haryana. “Surprised that the Chief Minister and top police officials are allowing this to happen with such impunity. You cannot force us to chant Vande Mataram or Jai Shri Ram,” Ms. Mufti said.