A budget discussion meeting of the Indore Municipal Corporation on Wednesday was disrupted after two Congress councillors refused to sing Vande Mataram, leading to a confrontation inside the House and subsequent political reactions.
Congress councillors Fauzia Sheikh Aleem and Rubina Iqbal declined to participate in the singing during the proceedings. Fauzia Sheikh Aleem questioned the directive and asked the Chair to specify the legal provision that mandates singing Vande Mataram in the municipal body.
Her objection led to protests from BJP councillors, who opposed the refusal and raised slogans. The situation escalated, and the House proceedings were disrupted. Chairman Munnalal Yadav later directed Fauzia Sheikh Aleem to leave the House in an attempt to restore order.
After the session, Rubina Iqbal spoke to the media and stated that her refusal was based on religious beliefs. She said that, according to her interpretation of Islam, singing Vande Mataram is not permitted as it involves worship, while adding that she does sing Sare Jahan Se Achha. She also made remarks criticising both the BJP and her own party, the Congress.
Iqbal stated that if action is taken against her, she may contest elections as an independent candidate or consider joining Asaduddin Owaisi’s party.
BJP leaders criticised the councillors’ refusal and indicated that legal action, including filing an FIR, is being considered. Discussions in this regard are reportedly ongoing between Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav and Chairman Munnalal Yadav.
BJP city president Sumit Mishra referred to the historical use of Vande Mataram during the freedom movement and named several leaders associated with it.
The incident also drew reactions from within the Congress. Party spokesperson KK Mishra criticised the councillors’ actions and called for disciplinary measures, including possible expulsion. He also alleged that the controversy could be politically motivated.
