Parliamentary Discord: Vande Mataram Sparks Political Storm

The Congress claims the BJP's attempt to pit Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay against Rabindranath Tagore over the status of 'Vande Mataram' backfired. BJP's J P Nadda demanded equal status for the song. Congress countered, citing an earlier declaration. The debate reignites historical and political tensions.

The parliamentary discussion commemorating 150 years of 'Vande Mataram' concluded with heightened tensions between political leaders. Congress asserted that the BJP's strategy to juxtapose Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay against Rabindranath Tagore has significantly misfired.

Congress communications chief Jairam Ramesh criticized BJP's J P Nadda for his remarks about equalizing the national song and anthem, recalling Rajendra Prasad's 1950 announcement of their equal status. The historical dispute continues to evoke strong sentiments within India's political realm.

Union Minister J P Nadda emphasized 'Vande Mataram''s links to nationalism in the Rajya Sabha, advocating for its equal status alongside the national anthem. As accusations of historical distortion and political appeasement fly, the debate on national symbols remains as contentious as ever.

(With inputs from agencies.)