Bhiwandi: Accusing him of hurting national sentiments, several organisations staged protests in Bhiwandi on Sunday against SP MLA Rais Shaikh for opposing the state’s directive to all govt schools mandating the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ from Oct 31-Nov 7 to mark its 150th anniversary.The organisations asserted that the national song is meant to evoke patriotism and national pride and holds no religious bias. They said it should be respected by all Indians, irrespective of caste or religion. They said Shaikh’s comments could spark communal tension and weaken national unity. Some protesters demanded a public apology from the MLA and a few called for his suspension from the assembly if he fails to do so. They said students should be encouraged to participate in patriotic activities and Shaikh’s objection was politically motivated ahead of the civic elections. —Pradeep Gupta
