Controversy over Mandatory Recitation of 'Vande Mataram' in Schools in Pakistan

A Muslim cleric in Pakistan, Maulana Imran Maksudul Kair, has sparked controversy by issuing a notification making the recitation of 'Vande Mataram' (a patriotic song) mandatory in schools. This has raised concerns as Pakistan's national anthem is already respected and recited in educational institutions. The cleric argues that 'Vande Mataram' promotes love for Islam, while critics argue that it goes against Pakistan's Islamic identity and national anthem. The issue has highlighted tensions between religious and national identities in the country.