New Delhi, Dec 08 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Monday lead a special discussion in the Lok Sabha to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram. The debate is expected to move beyond ceremony and delve into the song’s political, cultural and historical significance.
The government is positioning the discussion as an opportunity to revisit lesser-known aspects of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s iconic composition, first published in Bangadarshan on November 7, 1875. According to IANS inputs, the Prime Minister is likely to highlight the song’s influence on India’s freedom movement, its emotional resonance and its relevance in contemporary national identity.
Political undertone as PM’s past criticism resurfaces
The Opposition is closely watching PM Modi’s remarks, especially after he strongly criticised the Congress last month during an event marking the song’s anniversary. He alleged that the party “removed important stanzas” from the original composition during its 1937 Faizabad session, a move he claimed “sowed the seeds of Partition”.
The Congress rejected the accusation, stating the decision was taken on Rabindranath Tagore’s advice to address concerns of members from diverse communities.
With both sides prepared to revisit the decades-old flashpoint, the debate is expected to carry a sharp political edge.
Amit Shah to lead discussion in Rajya Sabha
In the Upper House, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to initiate the Vande Mataram debate on Tuesday.
NDA gets three hours in 10-hour session
As per the schedule, NDA members have been allotted three hours of speaking time in the 10-hour discussion window. With the Winter Session running until December 19, the debate’s political and cultural ripples are likely to extend through the coming days.