Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes BJP Over Political Claims on Vande Mataram

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP during a Lok Sabha debate, accusing it of politically exploiting the legacy of 'Vande Mataram'. He reiterated the song's historical significance as a symbol of India's freedom struggle, and challenged BJP's historical claims, questioning its secular and socialist stance.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Monday launched a scathing critique against the BJP during a special Lok Sabha discussion, commemorating the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'. Yadav accused the ruling party of attempting to politically monopolize the iconic song for its own benefit.

Yadav highlighted the song's roots in India's freedom movement, stressing its significance beyond political machinations. He narrated how 'Vande Mataram' emerged as a powerful rallying cry against British colonial rule, even citing Rabindranath Tagore's influential rendition during the Kolkata Congress session to underscore its impact.

Yadav questioned the BJP's historical stance, challenging its current claims of nationalism. He accused some party members of having acted as informants during the freedom struggle, instead of true patriots, and critiqued ongoing divisive tactics reminiscent of colonial 'divide and rule' policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)