Kerala Governor Expresses Discontent Over Incomplete Singing of Vande Mataram
Kerala's Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has expressed his displeasure regarding the incomplete rendition of 'Vande Mataram' during a recent assembly session. He emphasized the importance of adhering to proper protocol when he is present at official events. The incident has sparked political reactions, with the BJP accusing the assembly of disrespecting the national song. A former Union Minister also criticized the UDF government for allegedly yielding to external pressures. This situation raises questions about the observance of national sentiments in state functions.
| May 29, 2026, 15:02 IST
Governor's Displeasure at Assembly Protocol
On Friday, Kerala's Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar voiced his dissatisfaction regarding the incomplete rendition of 'Vande Mataram' during the policy speech of the United Democratic Front (UDF) government in the state assembly. Speaking to reporters in the Lok Sabha after returning from the assembly, the Governor emphasized that proper protocol should be observed whenever he attends an official event. Prior to and following his policy address, a band performed the initial verses of 'Vande Mataram' in the assembly.
Call for Full Rendition of National Song
The Governor reiterated that 'Vande Mataram' should be sung in its entirety whenever he is present in the assembly. He pointed out that the song was merely played and not sung during the session. Arlekar mentioned that he had already discussed this matter with the assembly speaker, Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, and expressed hope for a resolution. He stated, 'Let’s see what happens next.'
Political Reactions and Allegations
Earlier, the BJP accused the assembly of disrespecting the national song during the Governor's policy address, claiming it was an affront to the Lok Sabha. Senior BJP leader and Kazhakuttam MLA V. Muraleedharan stated that there is a directive from the central government mandating the complete singing of 'Vande Mataram' at events attended by the Governor, which was not adhered to in the Kerala assembly.
Further Accusations from Former Union Minister
A former Union Minister took to Facebook to express that this incident disrespects both the Lok Sabha and the esteemed Governor. He noted that the 150th anniversary of the national song was also insulted. The minister alleged that the UDF government, led by V.D. Satheesan, acted under pressure from the Jamaat-e-Islami and CPI(M). He asserted that this indicates the government's acceptance of the argument that the national song is not in line with secularism.
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