Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hit out at the government in the Lok Sabha during the 150th anniversary debate of Vande Mataram, accusing it of politicizing the national song ahead of the Bengal Assembly elections. She said the government is focusing on the past to distract from present and future issues.

Congress Leader Questions Parliament Debate

Priyanka Gandhi asked why Parliament was debating Vande Mataram, pointing out that the song is alive and respected across India.
She claimed:

“The government wants debate on Vande Mataram because Bengal polls are coming. They keep looking at the past to avoid present and future issues.”

PM Modi Criticizes Congress Over Song Version

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused Congress of modifying Vande Mataram under pressure from the Muslim League. He said Nehru followed Jinnah’s objections in 1937, avoiding certain lines to prevent “irritating Muslims,” and linked this decision to the Partition of India. Modi called it part of Congress’s appeasement politics.

Congress Rejects Allegations

Priyanka Gandhi rejected the PM’s claims, saying he misrepresented Nehru’s views. She stated that Nehru called the controversy “manufactured by communalists”.
Other Congress leaders and allies, including DMK’s A Raja, also said the debate was politically exaggerated, although some concerns by sections of the public were acknowledged by Nehru.

History of Vande Mataram

India observed the 150th anniversary of its national song on November 7.
Key historical points include:

• Composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, first published in Bangadarshan

• Incorporated into the novel Anandamath (1882)

• Set to music by Rabindranath Tagore

• Became a symbol of nationalism and a battle cry during the freedom movement

• Today, it continues as a cultural and patriotic landmark in India