Bengaluru, Sept. 10 -- The Karnataka government has decided to restrict the singing of Vande Mataram to its first two stanzas at most state government programmes, setting aside the Centre's decision to promote the singing of all six stanzas.

An official order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms on Thursday, September 10, said the first two stanzas would be sung at government functions and ceremonies organised by the state. The restriction, however, will not apply to programmes attended by the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister or Governor.

The decision follows the state Cabinet's consideration of guidelines concerning the performance and singing of Vande Mataram at official and public functions. The m...