On a day when the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind said that the lyrics of the national song Vande Mataram contradict Islamic beliefs, the All India Shia Personal Law Board asserted that Islam does not prohibit expressions of respect or salutations to the motherland.
“If Vande Mataram means the same, we have no objection,” said Maulana Yasoob Abbas, General Secretary of the Board.
Calls for an Accurate Urdu Translation to Avoid Misinterpretation
Abbas said that obtaining a correct and authentic Urdu translation of the national song would help Muslims understand its meaning and decide whether they wish to recite it. He emphasised that the spirit of the song must be known before forming an opinion.
Criticises Deoband Fatwa, Calls It a Publicity Stunt
Amid the ongoing controversy, Abbas criticised the fatwa issued by Darul Uloom Deoband, calling it a “publicity stunt.” He urged efforts to resolve the debate conclusively instead of allowing it to escalate repeatedly.
Patriotism an Essential Part of Faith, Says Abbas
Abbas said patriotism is an essential value and that loving one’s country is integral to faith. He warned that prioritising religion over the nation reflects a “Taliban-like mentality,” which can create complications. He suggested that attention should instead be directed toward key national issues such as employment, healthcare, and education.
Jamiat Reiterates Objection to Song’s Theological Elements
Earlier in the day, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind chief Maulana Arshad Madani said that Muslims do not object to others singing Vande Mataram, but added that the song contains elements that contradict Islamic monotheistic beliefs.
In a post on X, Madani said the song’s verses liken the homeland to a deity and to Durga Mata, and use expressions associated with worship elements that conflict with Islamic theology.
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