Yavatmal, Maharashtra: A government-run Urdu school in Yavatmal has come under scrutiny after students performed to a Pakistani military song during a cultural event, prompting police to file an FIR against the school principal and a teacher. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about oversight of school programmes.
Videos circulating on social media show students of Abdul Gafur Shah Municipal Urdu School No. 2 in Umarkhed performing a choreographed dance while holding symbolic or mock swords. The song reportedly played during the performance is “Ae Mard-e-Mujahid Teri Yalgaar Kahan Hai,” described as a Pakistani patriotic or military-motivational anthem. The performance was staged as part of a Republic Day-related cultural programme attended by parents and local residents.
The clips, which quickly went viral, drew strong criticism online, with many users alleging that the song had historical links to Pakistan’s armed forces and could negatively influence children. BJP councillor Gopal Kalane lodged a formal complaint, stating that Class 6 students performing with symbolic swords to the song hurt public sentiments and breached social and cultural norms.
Following the complaint, police registered an offence under Section 196(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and launched an investigation into the matter. Authorities are recording statements from school officials, staff, and witnesses to understand how the song was chosen and whether school guidelines were violated.
Officials confirmed that the probe is examining the role of the school administration in approving and overseeing the performance. The primary focus is on accountability, as the event involved minors performing in front of a public audience while being exposed to content considered anti-national by some community members.
While the videos clearly show children performing in stage costumes, the school administration has not yet issued a detailed public statement addressing the controversy. Police and education authorities are expected to submit a report on the proceedings, including whether disciplinary or legal action will be taken against the staff involved.
The incident has drawn attention to the need for stricter monitoring of cultural programmes in schools, especially when such events are held in public spaces or during nationally significant occasions like Republic Day.
Local residents staged discussions on social media and local forums, demanding accountability and stricter oversight of school activities. Authorities have indicated that the investigation will also review whether existing educational guidelines on cultural presentations were adequately followed.
The FIR and investigation underline growing public concern about the content used in schools and the potential influence of such performances on young students.
