Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal has faced criticism after making a controversial remark about those who oppose or object to the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ at an RSS-organised youth event in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.

Kunnummal, who was speaking at the ‘Sankalp 2026 Yuva Sangamam’ in Manvila, reportedly said that people who oppose Vande Mataram “do not know who their mother is”. He linked the national song with the idea of India being regarded as a mother. (The Pioneer)

The remarks have triggered a fresh political debate in Kerala, particularly over the participation of university vice-chancellors in RSS-linked programmes.

What the Vice-Chancellor Said

Speaking at the event, Kunnummal reportedly argued that Vande Mataram was connected with the concept of Mother India.

He also spoke about the responsibility of parents to raise children as responsible citizens, with particular emphasis on women and motherhood.

The comments have drawn criticism because of the position held by Kunnummal as the Vice-Chancellor of a state university and because the remarks were made at an RSS-organised programme.

RSS Event Triggers Political Debate

Kunnummal's appearance at the RSS programme has added to an existing political controversy in Kerala over his association with events linked to the organisation.

Opposition political formations in the state have previously questioned his appointment and accused the government and Governor's office of allowing the education sector to be influenced by the RSS.

Student organisations, including the Students' Federation of India (SFI) and Kerala Students' Union (KSU), have also criticised Kunnummal's participation in RSS-related programmes and accused him of promoting what they describe as an RSS agenda.

Kunnummal's latest comments have therefore become part of a wider debate over political neutrality and the role of university officials in public events.

Vande Mataram Debate Intensifies

The controversy comes at a time when Vande Mataram has received renewed attention at the national level.

The Centre has introduced new protocols governing the performance of the national song. Where both Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana are performed at an official event, Vande Mataram is to be performed first, followed by the national anthem. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued detailed instructions concerning the rendition and protocol of the national song. (Ministry of Home Affairs)

The issue gained further significance after Vande Mataram was sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort during the 80th Independence Day celebrations on August 15, marking the first such rendition at the venue. (The Times of India)

Legal Protection Expanded

The controversy also follows a recent change in the legal framework surrounding the national song.

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was passed by Parliament and subsequently received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu. The amendment provides statutory protection to Vande Mataram, with intentional disrespect or obstruction of its singing made punishable under the amended law. Reports on the legislation state that the punishment can extend to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. (News on Air)

However, the legal protection of the song and debates over its performance are separate from the political controversy surrounding Kunnummal's remarks.

Kerala Schools Also in Debate

The issue has also surfaced in Kerala's education system. The state's General Education Department issued Independence Day guidelines requiring schools to hoist the national flag and sing Jana Gana Mana, but did not issue a direction making Vande Mataram compulsory for the August 15 celebrations. (The Times of India)

This has added another layer to the ongoing discussion in the state over the role of Vande Mataram in educational and official functions.

Debate Over University Neutrality

The latest controversy is likely to keep attention focused on the political activities and public statements of university officials in Kerala.

While Vande Mataram remains an important symbol associated with India's freedom movement and has received enhanced statutory protection, Kunnummal's remarks have shifted the immediate discussion towards whether a serving university Vice-Chancellor should make such politically charged comments at an RSS event.

The controversy is expected to continue as political parties and student organisations respond to the statement.