Congress-BJP Clash Over Nehru's Legacy in Vande Mataram Debate

In a heated exchange during the Vande Mataram anniversary debate, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh rebuked PM Narendra Modi's critique of Jawaharlal Nehru, accusing the Prime Minister of distorting history. Ramesh highlighted BJP's past alliances with controversial figures, countering Modi's accusations of Congress's alleged appeasement policies.

The debate over the legacy of India's national song, Vande Mataram, sparked a fiery exchange in Parliament on Monday, with Congress MP Jairam Ramesh clashing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The argument stemmed from Modi's criticism of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, accusing him of appeasement in historical contexts.

Ramesh, in a defiant retort, labelled Modi the "master of distortion" and cited historical examples involving BJP figures. He referenced Syama Prasad Mookerjee's alliance with AK Fazlul Haq in the 1940s and LK Advani's controversial remarks at Mohammad Ali Jinnah's mausoleum as evidence of BJP's own historical contradictions.

The exchange highlighted longstanding political tensions between Congress and BJP, with Modi further criticizing Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Nehru for perceived disrespect towards Vande Mataram. The debate continues as part of the ongoing Winter Session of the Indian Parliament, set to conclude on December 19.

(With inputs from agencies.)