The Congress party on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a parliamentary discussion on Vande Mataram, accusing him of attempting to distort key aspects of India’s freedom movement and national heritage. The criticism emerged amid deliberations related to the national song Vande Mataram and the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Senior Congress leaders alleged that the Prime Minister and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party were selectively interpreting history to suit a political narrative. They claimed that such interpretations undermined the contributions of several national leaders, including Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who composed the national anthem, and Mahatma Gandhi, whose legacy they say is being sidelined.
Congress spokespersons argued that debates around Vande Mataram should be handled with historical sensitivity, as the song played a unifying role during India’s freedom struggle. They accused the government of attempting to create unnecessary controversy around national symbols instead of focusing on issues of governance and public welfare.
The party further stated that Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non violence and inclusiveness was being gradually eroded through political rhetoric and policy decisions. According to Congress leaders, the freedom movement was built on collective efforts and mutual respect among leaders of different ideologies, and any attempt to rewrite this history would weaken the country’s democratic foundations.
The controversy arose during parliamentary discussions coinciding with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary, a day observed nationwide to honour his contribution to India’s independence. Congress leaders emphasised that Bose, Gandhi, Tagore, and other freedom fighters shared a common goal of liberating the country, despite differences in approach.
Responding to the allegations, leaders from the BJP dismissed the Congress’s claims as politically motivated. They stated that the Prime Minister and the government hold all freedom fighters in high regard and have taken several steps to honour their legacy, including commemorative events, memorial projects, and educational initiatives.
The BJP maintained that discussions on national symbols such as Vande Mataram are part of a broader effort to reconnect citizens with India’s cultural and historical roots. The party accused the Congress of attempting to politicise national heritage for electoral gains.
Political analysts note that debates over historical interpretation have increasingly become a point of contention between major political parties. Such discussions often resurface around national anniversaries and parliamentary sessions, reflecting deeper ideological differences on how India’s past should be represented in public discourse.
As the debate continues, both sides have called for respect towards national symbols and historical figures, while maintaining their respective positions. The issue is expected to feature prominently in upcoming political discussions and parliamentary proceedings.
