Schools not directed to sing Vande Mataram for Independence Day

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Schools in the state have not been instructed to sing Vande Mataram as part of Independence Day celebrations. A circular issued by the Director of General Education only directs schools to sing the national anthem.

An order issued earlier by the Chief Secretary had directed that Vande Mataram be sung in full at official functions related to Independence Day. This had led to speculation that the directive would also have to be followed in schools.

The circular also directs students to stand and show respect while the national anthem is being sung. It includes instructions regarding the hoisting of the national flag and calls for strict adherence to the Green Protocol. The Director of General Education issued the order based on the instructions of the Protocol Officer.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said the Chief Secretary's circular merely conveyed the Central government's directive. He had also said that the state government did not have such a position.