India, May 22 -- The West Bengal Government has directed all madrassas in the State to ensure the singing of Vande Mataram during daily assembly prayers, effective immediately. The move comes nearly a week after the State Government announced a separate policy requiring the national song to be sung in all schools.

The latest directive applies to Government model madrassas, Government-aided madrassas, approved Shishu Shiksha Kendras, Madhyamik Shiksha Kendras, and recognised unaided madrassas under the Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education Department.

The notification has been circulated to district magistrates, district school inspectors, the West Bengal Board of Madrasah Education, and other senior officials for implementation. Heads...