Politics · India
Vande Mataram Row Sparks Political Controversy Across India
A political controversy erupted across India concerning the singing of the national anthem and 'Vande Mataram' during Independence Day events. In Delhi, an FIR was filed against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, alleging deliberate disruption during a Congress headquarters event. The BJP, including Union Minister Amit Shah, demanded an apology from Sonia Gandhi, accusing the Congress of disrespecting national symbols. The Congress rejected these accusations, calling them a 'political diversion' and an attempt to politicise an emotional issue. Similar disputes arose in Kozhikode, Kerala, where LDF and UDF councillors accused BJP councillors of insulting the national anthem by singing 'Vande Mataram' simultaneously. In Haldwani, Uttarakhand, the site of a rally addressed by Mallikarjun Kharge was reportedly 'purified', drawing criticism from various leaders.
How outlets across the spectrum covered it
- Left (2): The Hindu, The Telegraph (India)
- Centre (11 votes, 12 outlets): Amar Ujala, Business Today, Deccan Chronicle, Deccan Herald, Greater Kashmir, Hindustan Times, Mathrubhumi English, The Economic Times · The Times of India (Times Group — 1 vote), The Indian Express, The New Indian Express, The Tribune
- Right (2): Punjab Kesari, The Pioneer