Political Controversy Erupts Over 'Vande Mataram' at Congress Headquarters
Political Tensions Rise Over 'Vande Mataram' Performance
New Delhi. The controversy surrounding the full rendition of 'Vande Mataram' at the Congress headquarters on Independence Day has escalated from political accusations to formal complaints. BJP leaders have filed a complaint against Congress Parliamentary Party President Sonia Gandhi, alleging disrespect towards the national song and demanding action.
Origin of the Controversy at Congress Headquarters
During the Independence Day celebrations at the Congress headquarters on August 15, 'Vande Mataram' was sung. A video that surfaced led the BJP to claim that Sonia Gandhi objected to the full rendition of the song. BJP leaders criticized Congress, labeling it as a sign of disrespect towards the national anthem.
However, Congress has dismissed these allegations. The party clarified that Sonia Gandhi's gestures in the video were not intended to stop 'Vande Mataram' but were related to arranging a seat for party president Mallikarjun Kharge, who had been standing for an extended period.
Complaint Filed by BJP Leader
Following the controversy, Karnataka BJP leader Vikas Puttur lodged a complaint against Sonia Gandhi at the Urwa police station. The complaint calls for action regarding the alleged disrespect towards the national anthem. Puttur also stated that if the police and state government do not act on his complaint, he may approach the Karnataka High Court.
Additionally, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, there have been reports of a petition submitted to the police commissioner regarding Sonia Gandhi's alleged disrespect towards 'Vande Mataram', with the complainant seeking action.
BJP Leaders Intensify Criticism
Central Home Minister Amit Shah and several BJP leaders have launched a strong attack on Congress regarding this issue. Shah accused Sonia Gandhi of interfering with the singing of 'Vande Mataram' and questioned Congress's stance. BJP leaders have linked this matter to national pride and patriotism, demanding an apology from Sonia Gandhi.
BJP leaders from West Bengal have also voiced their opinions on the matter. BJP MLA Sumitro Chatterjee, who claims descent from the creator of 'Vande Mataram', Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, has also called for an apology from Sonia Gandhi.
Congress Denies Allegations
On the other hand, Congress asserts that the entire incident has been misrepresented. The party maintains that Sonia Gandhi's gesture was not meant to halt 'Vande Mataram', but was related to seating arrangements for Mallikarjun Kharge during the event. Despite this clarification, the exchange of statements between BJP and Congress continues.
Political Temperature Rises After Complaint
This controversy over 'Vande Mataram' arises at a time when discussions about the national anthem have intensified in Parliament. The central government had listed an amendment bill in July that would make disrespecting 'Vande Mataram' or obstructing its performance punishable.
Currently, all eyes are on how the police will respond to the complaint against Sonia Gandhi. While the BJP views this as a serious issue related to the respect of the national anthem, Congress dismisses the allegations as a political controversy. This issue may gain further traction in Parliament and political discussions in the coming days.