- Assam BJP Reaffirms Commitment to Vande Mataram

Guwahati, 23 August (HS): The Assam BJP has strongly criticised the Congress Working Committee’s decision to sing only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at party programmes, saying the national song’s historical legacy and dignity should not be compromised for political considerations.

BJP spokesperson Brajen Mahanta said Vande Mataram is deeply connected with India’s freedom struggle, patriotism and national unity. Referring to its history, he said the song was first sung at the 1896 Congress session and later became an important symbol of the freedom movement.

Mahanta questioned why the Congress decided to limit the song’s use in 1937 after it had been sung in full at earlier Congress sessions. He urged the Congress to place the historical background of the decision before the public based on authentic records.

The BJP also called for nationwide awareness programmes among young people on the history and significance of Vande Mataram, asserting that its honour and legacy should not be compromised for vote-bank politics.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash