Congress Must Study Meaning of ‘Vande Mataram’ and Explain Alleged Disrespect to the Nation: Arun Kumar Gupta
Jammu, 17 August 2026:
Senior BJP leader and spokesperson Arun Kumar Gupta on Monday strongly criticised the Congress over what he described as disrespect towards the national song ‘Vande Mataram’, asserting that political parties must rise above partisan considerations when dealing with symbols that represent the nation’s history, freedom struggle and national sentiment.
Gupta said the Congress should first study and understand the historical meaning and significance of ‘Vande Mataram’ before making political arguments around it. He urged the party to explain to the people of India the circumstances and reasons behind what he termed an alleged act of disrespect towards the national song in parliament.
“Congress must first study the meaning of ‘Vande Mataram’ and understand why it occupies such a revered place in the history of India’s freedom struggle. Before making political statements, the Congress should explain to the nation why such conduct was displayed towards a national symbol,” Gupta said.
He said ‘Vande Mataram’ is not merely a collection of words or a political slogan, but has a deep historical association with India’s freedom movement. Generations of freedom fighters drew inspiration from the song during the struggle against British rule, and its place in India’s national consciousness cannot be separated from that history, he added.
Gupta said political differences are a natural part of democracy, but national symbols should not become instruments of political confrontation. “Countries are not governed by personal whims, political convenience or individual interpretations. Governance and public life require respect for institutions, national values and the sentiments of citizens,” he said.
The BJP spokesperson challenged the Congress leadership to make its position clear before the people and avoid what he called “selective outrage” on issues concerning nationalism and national symbols. He said that if the party believes in respecting the country’s heritage, it should demonstrate that commitment through its words and conduct.
Gupta further said that the younger generation needs to be educated about the historical contribution of ‘Vande Mataram’ and its connection with India’s freedom movement. Instead of politicising the issue, political parties should encourage awareness about the country’s history and the sacrifices made by freedom fighters, he added.
He appealed to all political parties to maintain dignity while discussing national symbols and to ensure that political disagreements do not undermine the sentiments attached to them.
“The people of India deserve an explanation. Congress should tell the nation why the dignity of ‘Vande Mataram’ was not respected and should clarify its position without ambiguity,” Gupta said.
He concluded by asserting that respect for the nation, its history and its symbols should remain above party politics, and called upon the Congress to introspect and provide a clear explanation to the people.