Opposition and NDA leaders engaged in a heated debate regarding the BJP-led Centre’s plan to introduce a Bill in the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament aimed at penalizing any disrespect or hindrance to the rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’. This move is expected to elevate the national song to the status of the national anthem.
Critics, including Congress MP Imran Masood, expressed strong disapproval of the proposal, citing concerns about its impact on the country’s secular principles. Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput emphasized that disrupting the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ is unlikely among Indians, questioning the necessity of such legislation.
CPI leader Binoy Viswam echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of secular values in a diverse nation like India. He urged the government to clarify its stance on secularism amidst the proposed Bill. Samajwadi Party spokesperson Udaiveer Singh noted the existence of laws safeguarding the respect for national symbols, criticizing the government for focusing on outdated issues.
In response, the NDA defended the Bill, criticizing the Opposition for their resistance to honoring the national song despite existing guidelines. BJP leader Pratul Shah Deo stressed the significance of respecting ‘Vande Mataram’ and advocated for stringent actions against those who show disrespect. JD(U) chief spokesperson Neeraj Kumar called for widespread awareness and appreciation of every verse of the song among citizens.
Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi welcomed the potential legislation, drawing parallels with existing laws protecting the national anthem. Meanwhile, Shivsharanappa Wali, founder-president of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Pratishthan, expressed support for the Bill, predicting its passage despite opposition, which he deemed as possibly anti-national.
