MP High Court Issues Notice In PIL Seeking Probe Over Indore Councillors' Refusal To Sing 'Vande Mataram'

The Madhya Pradesh High Court, on Thursday (April 16), issued notice to respondents in a public interest litigation seeking a probe into the conduct of two elected representatives of the Indore Municipal Corporation, who allegedly refused to participate in the singing of the National Song, 'Vande Mataram'.

The division bench of Justice Vijay Kumar Shukla and Justice Alok Awasthi observed;

"Issue notice to the respondents. Shri Pradyumna Kibe, learned Government Advocate accepts notice for respondents No.1 to 4. Let notice be issued to the respondents No.5 & 6 on payment of PF within three working days by Registered AD mode, with due acknowledgement, returnable within two weeks. List the matter in the week commencing 11.5.2026".

The petition was filed by a practising advocate from an incident that occured on April 8, 2026, during an Indore Municipal Corporation meeting. According to the reports, two elected representatives, Rubina Iqbal and Fauzia Sheikh Alim, allegedly declined to participate in the singing of the National Song, 'Vande Mataram', and made statements perceived as reflecting disregard toward the song.

The petition stated that 'Vande Mataram' has a historic role in the freedom struggle and should be honoured. Thus, the petition raised a broader issue regarding the lack of clear administrative guidelines governing the conduct of public representatives in relation to the observance of the National Song during official proceedings.

Thus, the petition sought directions to competent authorities to examine the conduct of the concerned elected representatives in accordance with law and to take necessary action, including the initiation of an inquiry, if warranted.

Additionally, the petition sought directions against the State Authorities to issue an advisory to municipal bodies and public institutions, ensuring that due to decorum, dignity and respect are maintained during official proceedings where 'Vande Mataram' is sung or played.

Case Title: Yogesh Hemnani v State of Madhya Pradesh [WP-13537-2026]

For Respondents: Government Advocate Pradyumna Kibe

Click here to read/download the Order