Vande Mataram controversy: Kerala schools not directed to sing 'National song' on Independence Day

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid a controversy in Kerala over the singing of Vande Mataram, schools in the state have been asked to hoist the national flag and sing Jana Gana Mana during Independence Day celebrations on August 15, but the latest guidelines issued by the General Education Department make no mention of the National Song.

According to instructions issued by the Director of Public Education, heads of institutions must hoist the national flag at 9 am or later on August 15, followed by the national anthem.