The Bihar government has implemented a new cultural protocol for all government educational institutions and official programs across the state. According to an order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), all government schools, colleges, universities, and other official events will now begin with the national song “Vande Mataram.” This will be followed by the national anthem “Jana Gana Mana,” while the program will conclude with Bihar’s state song, “Mere Bharat Ke Kanth Haar, Tujhko Shat-Shat Vandan Bihar.”
Issuing the order on April 26, 2026, the state government said the objective behind the move is to promote patriotism, cultural awareness, and respect for Bihar’s historical identity among students and youth. The directive has been sent to all government departments, district magistrates, divisional commissioners, and educational institutions across the state.
Order to Apply Across All Government Institutions
According to the government directive, the protocol will be implemented in government schools, colleges, universities, training institutes, and programs organized by various government departments. Officials have been instructed to ensure that the prescribed sequence is followed at all public events.
The sequence mandated by the government will be:
Beginning the program with “Vande Mataram”
Followed by the national anthem “Jana Gana Mana”
Concluding with the Bihar state song
Special Importance Given to Bihar State Song
For the first time, the Bihar government has made the state song a mandatory part of official event protocols. “Mere Bharat Ke Kanth Haar, Tujhko Shat-Shat Vandan Bihar” was adopted as Bihar’s official state song in 2012. The government says the move will help strengthen the state’s cultural identity and regional pride.
‘Vande Mataram’ Has Remained a Subject of Controversy
“Vande Mataram” was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and emerged as a major nationalist song during India’s freedom movement. It was later accorded the status of the national song.
However, the song has also remained controversial for decades. Muslim organizations and some minority groups have objected to references to religious symbols in certain portions of the song. They argue that making any song mandatory could become an issue related to personal liberty and religious sentiments.
Political Reactions Begin
The Bihar government’s decision has been welcomed by the BJP and affiliated organizations. BJP leaders described it as a step aimed at strengthening patriotism and national unity.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have questioned the order. Some leaders alleged that the government is pushing cultural issues to divert attention from education, unemployment, and other basic concerns.
Political analysts believe the issue could trigger a fresh political debate in Bihar ahead of upcoming elections.
Legal and Constitutional Debate Intensifies
Constitutional experts point out that courts have delivered several judgments regarding respect for national symbols, but compelling an individual to sing a particular song could become a matter of constitutional debate.
For now, the Bihar government’s order has sparked a fresh discussion in the state around nationalism, cultural identity, and constitutional rights.
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