The Supreme Court recently dismissed a legal challenge against a government directive requiring officials to sing the national song *Vande Mataram* at official events. The court called the plea “premature” and based on unfounded fears of discrimination.
A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi heard arguments from lawyer Sanjay Hegde, who represented petitioner Muhammed Sayeed Noori. Hegde argued that compelling employees to sing the song could be seen as an unfair obligation, especially for those of different faiths.
When Justice Bagchi asked if there were any penalties for not singing, Hegde replied that while no legal punishment was specified, refusing to participate might lead to social pressure or consequences in the workplace. The court questioned whether such a directive truly forced anyone to sing, pointing out that the circular used the word “may,” making it optional.
The bench concluded that the current petition lacked merit and dismissed it, advising Noori to return if any actual legal action arises. They stated the case was based on “vague fears” rather than concrete evidence of discrimination.