Amid objections from the Opposition regarding the equal treatment of Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) dismissed the claims as baseless. The BJP emphasized that Vande Mataram is an integral part of India’s rich heritage, belonging to all citizens equally.
Responding to criticisms, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya refuted allegations that giving statutory protection to Vande Mataram would create discord. He highlighted the historical significance of Vande Mataram in India’s anti-colonial movement.
The controversy arose after the Union Cabinet approved amending the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, to provide similar protection to Vande Mataram as the national anthem. Opposition leaders, including AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, expressed strong objections to this decision.
Malviya argued against the notion that Vande Mataram is solely an ode to a Goddess, emphasizing its broader cultural symbolism. He underlined that the song had been a symbol of India’s freedom struggle and should be respected accordingly.
Rejecting claims that respecting Vande Mataram undermines India’s inclusivity, Malviya stated that India’s nationalism is not tied to any specific faith. He highlighted the cultural significance of Vande Mataram in India’s civilizational context.
Recalling the adoption of Jana Gana Mana as the National Anthem in 1950, Malviya pointed out that Vande Mataram was also accorded equal respect due to its role in India’s freedom movement. He corrected the misconception that India’s constitutional founders had rejected Vande Mataram.
