Supreme Court Declines Vande Mataram Plea, Cites Non-Mandatory Directive

• Supreme Court refused to entertain a plea against a home ministry circular on singing Vande Mataram at official events.
• The court stated the directive was not mandatory, terming the plea as "premature" and based on "vague apprehension of discrimination."
• Petitioner Muhammed Sayeed Noori argued against compelling participation, citing potential 'social demonstration of loyalty' issues.
• The bench noted the circular uses 'may,' indicating freedom to sing or not sing, and lacks penal consequences for non-participation.
• The court advised the petitioner to approach them if any penal action or notice compelling participation is issued.