Srinagar, Sept. 11 -- Amid the debate over the full version of Vande Mataram, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that while his party has never adopted the national song and will not do so in the future, it will comply with the legal requirement to perform it at government functions.

Speaking on the issue, Abdullah said the provision applies to government functions nationwide, and that failure to comply would result in action.

"A law has been enacted regarding the national song. All verses of Vande Mataram have become mandatory. This applies not just to Jammu and Kashmir, but to the entire country; this is the protocol for government functions nationwide. Failure to comply will result in action," Abdullah said.

He said...