Overview
- The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the plea as premature, saying the Home Affairs notice is only an advisory with no penalties.
- The January 28 circular sets a protocol that all six stanzas of Vande Mataram be sung before the national anthem at events and says schools may hold group singing.
- Petitioner Muhammed Sayeed Noori, represented by Sanjay Hegde, warned of social pressure on those who decline, but the bench found the fears vague and asked him to return if anyone faces coercion.
- Solicitor General Tushar Mehta cited citizens’ duties under Article 51A, while Hegde replied that the Constitution does not mention the national song and that patriotism cannot be forced.
- Muslim groups still urge withdrawal of the advisory, and the court made clear it will entertain a fresh case only if authorities impose penalties despite the national song lacking the anthem’s legal protections and traditionally using only two stanzas at events.