Karnataka orders limited recitation of Vande Mataram at state events

The Karnataka government has issued an order directing that only the first two stanzas of the national song, Vande Mataram, be recited at state government programmes. However, the order specifies that all six verses of the song must be sung at events attended by high-ranking officials, including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Governor.

This decision follows guidelines from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs regarding the official version of the song and protocols for its use in public functions. The state government stated the decision was made to maintain uniformity and decorum while recognizing the song's role in India's national movement.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has criticized the move, alleging that the curtailment of the song reflects “appeasement politics” by the Congress-led government. Joshi argued that the song should be given full respect due to its historical importance in the freedom struggle.