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ShareMumbai: When there is no coercion involved in reciting of Vande-Mataram, why should this issue be raised? This has only given a boost to right-wing political parties, who will use it as a platform to divide the masses and create communal discord.
We are residing in a democratic country and we have to live with members of other religious denominations without putting our faith in peril. It is mentioned in the Holy Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah "No compulsion is there in religion; rectitude has been distinguished from error". (V:2:256). Further it is mentioned in the Holy Quran, Surah Al-Isra: "Each one does according to Shakilatihi (his way or his religion or his intentions) and your Lord knows best of him whose (religion) is right". (V:17:84).
Even the prophet said, "Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive good tidings. Gain strength by offering the Salat (prayers) in the morning, afternoon and during the last hours of the night". (Vol.1:No:38).
The Imam of the Holy Kaaba, on his visit to Mumbai for treatment, had warned Muslims not be extremists as Indian Muslims were living in a democratic framework and not an Islamic country. Further he also requested Muslims to maintain communal harmony, brotherhood as Islam stands for peace. As an individual who studied in a Catholic convent, we would sing prayers in the assembly hall. This doesn't mean that we have lost our faith in Allah.
