Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind President Maulana Arshad Madani spoke out against the national song Vande Mataram and said that its lyrics go against the basic belief of Islamic monotheism.

In a post on X, he said, "We have no objection to anyone reciting or singing Vande Mataram. However, a Muslim worships only one Allah and cannot associate anyone else with Him in worship."

He said, "In its four verses, the homeland is likened to a deity and to Durga Mata, and words associated with worship are used."

Madani explained that the phrase "Vande Mataram" translates to "Mother, I worship you," and he said this meaning is against Muslim belief.

He said that no one should be forced to sing something that goes against their faith.

He added that the Indian Constitution protects freedom of religion and expression under Articles 25 and 19.

Madani said, "Muslims do not need anyone's certificate to prove their patriotism, their sacrifices in the freedom struggle are a shining chapter of history."

He added, "We would accept death, but never accept polytheism."

His remarks come at a time when Parliament is discussing the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier criticised Congress leader Jawaharlal Nehru for allegedly accepting Muhammad Ali Jinnah's objections to the song and had said that this reflected appeasement politics.

The day-long debate on the 150th anniversary of "Vande Mataram" saw the treasury and opposition members locked in a verbal duel on a host of issues, including nationalism.