Bhopal:
In a first of its kind, the Madhya Pradesh government will now have its own anthem which will be sung at government offices, schools and colleges after the national anthem on special occasions and events. The government justifies the move, and insists that it will instil state pride and will unify people.
"The reason behind this step is that the song showcases the glory of the state. Also, everyone living in Madhya Pradesh should be proud of the fact that he belongs to this state," said KL Agarwal, Minister of General Administration, Madhya Pradesh.
But while the Opposition accuses the BJP government of disrupting national unity, the unease with the new rule is apparent elsewhere too.
"The national anthem is for Madhya Pradesh also, like it is for Punjab and other states. On one side we speak of national unity and on the other we come up with such things. I don't think this kind of mentality is right," said Brajesh Singh, Congress MLA.
"People from across the country are moving towards any part of the country that they feel like living in. This might create a discord in the community," said Father Anand, Spokesperson Catholic Association, Madhya Pradesh.
It's the latest in a long line of controversial decisions by the state government.
Recently, it drew flak for teaching Gita lessons in state-run schools.
Two years ago, the Madhya Pradesh government's move to make 'surya namaskar' and 'pranayam' mandatory in schools was also dismissed by the high court.
The same government's move to introduce 'bhojan mantra' before their mid-day meals also invited widespread criticism.
The General Administration department has approved mandatory state anthem recital from 19th July. However, government schools say they haven't received the orders till now. The schools fear that compulsory state anthem, more than unifying the state, may create a divide among people.