Government, Opposition spar in Lok Sabha over Vande Mataram

By Admin

09 Dec, 2025

A heated exchange unfolded in the Lok Sabha on Monday (December 8, 2025), as the ruling government and the Opposition clashed over the legacy and relevance of Vande Mataram. What began as a political argument quickly turned into a deeper discussion about identity, history, and electoral intentions making the national song the centre of an intense parliamentary storm.

A Charged Statement by PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticised the Congress, accusing India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, of “betraying the National Song for Jinnah.” He argued that Vande Mataram, which he described as “the voice of the freedom movement,” was fragmented due to the Congress’s “surrender before the Muslim League” during the pre-Independence years.
According to the Prime Minister, the national song deserved unified respect, free from past political compromises.

Congress Reacts Strongly: Priyanka Gandhi Questions the Need for the Debate
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra countered the government's claims, stating that the debate itself was unnecessary. She asserted that Vande Mataram is “a part of India’s soul,” embraced by people across the country without dispute.
She further accused the government of reviving the issue with an eye on the upcoming Bengal elections, suggesting that the ruling party was attempting to use cultural sentiments for political advantage.

Vande Mataram: History Meets Present Politics
The exchange brought the spotlight back to a long-standing historical discourse surrounding Vande Mataram. While the song played a powerful role in India’s freedom struggle, its political usage in modern times has often triggered tensions and debates.
PM Modi’s remarks brought forward a narrative rooted in historical grievances, while the Opposition insisted the ruling party was creating a divide where none existed.

A Debate That Reflects India’s Changing Political Landscape
The altercation in the Lok Sabha highlights how national symbols songs, slogans, and historical icons continue to hold emotional power. They influence political narratives, public sentiment, and electoral strategies.
With the West Bengal polls approaching, both sides appear determined to shape the narrative in their favour, making Vande Mataram not just a cultural emblem, but a political tool as well.

As the debate continues, one thing remains clear: Vande Mataram still resonates deeply with Indians. Whether seen as a unifying force or a political flashpoint, it remains firmly rooted in the nation’s consciousness symbolising India’s past struggles and present complexities.