“India Runs on Constitution, Not ‘Bharat Mata’: Owaisi’s Strong Statement on Vande Mataram and National Identity”

New Delhi/Hyderabad: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi sparked nationwide discussion with a bold statement on India’s Constitution and the national song Vande Mataram, ahead of its 150th anniversary celebrations. Owaisi emphasized that India’s governance is guided by its Constitution, which begins with “We the People” and not with references to “Bharat Mata.”

Constitution over symbolism

Speaking at a public rally in Sadasivpet, Telangana, Owaisi said:
“During the parliamentary debate on the 150th year of Vande Mataram, I stood and reminded the House that on 24 January 1950, we gave ourselves a Constitution. That Constitution begins with the English words ‘We the People.’ It does not start with Bharat Mata.”

He further criticized attempts to link religion and patriotism, saying:
“If you connect religious worship to love for the country, then what answer will you give to Bahadur Shah Zafar, who sacrificed his life and whose remains lie in Yangon?”

Religious freedom and the preamble

Owaisi underlined the importance of Article 25 guaranteeing religious freedom, and highlighted the values enshrined in the Constitution’s preamble: liberty, equality, justice, and fraternity. He said:
“If you equate devotion to religion with patriotism, it is unacceptable to us. I am a Muslim, and my faith teaches me to worship only Allah. Our country runs on the Constitution, not religious symbolism.”

150 years of Vande Mataram

India is currently celebrating 150 years of its national song, Vande Mataram, with events across the country including mass singing, cultural programs, and military band performances, aimed at fostering national pride and unity.