Vande Mataram debate in Lok Sabha today; PM Modi to open session amid expectations of heated arguments

New Delhi: A special discussion is going to be held in Parliament from today on the occasion of the completion of 150 years of the composition of the national song Vande Mataram. Ten hours have been fixed for this in the Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the discussion, while it is believed that Defense Minister Rajnath Singh can conclude it.

Since both the government and the opposition have already agreed to discuss this, the possibility of conflict is considered less. However, it is also certain that during the debate, some such references and comments may come to light, which will again bring warmth in the winter session.

PM can mention old controversies

There are indications that Prime Minister Modi may mention some historical aspects of the national anthem. He had recently said that the original words of Vande Mataram were tampered with in the 1937 Congress session. He said that the soul of the song was removed and it was fragmented, which further promoted the mentality of division.

Modi had asked, "Why did this happen to this great work? The new generation should understand this history." He was specifically referring to those verses in which words like “Durga” occur. BJP leaders had also raised this issue recently by linking it to Rahul Gandhi's statement of "fighting with power."

On which issues will the opposition speak?

Some sharp statements are also expected from the opposition. Many controversies have arisen in the past regarding the singing of the national anthem, and there is a possibility that some MPs may bring this aspect forward. During the discussion, some new historical information about the era of the freedom movement may also come to light, which may create a politically uncomfortable environment.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Gaurav Gogoi, and many other leaders can speak on behalf of Congress. At the same time, the reaction of the Trinamool Congress will be especially worth watching because Vande Mataram has its roots in Bengal, and the state is going to go into election mode soon.

There is a section in Bengal that opposes this song, whereas the common people have a very deep emotional connection with it. In such a situation, TMC's stand can become the focal point of discussion.

The debate will proceed in Rajya Sabha

After discussion in the Lok Sabha, this topic will be considered in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. Home Minister Amit Shah can initiate the discussion there.