‘Proper decorum needed for singing Vande Mataram’: MoS Suresh Gopi dismisses BJP protests

Palakkad (Kerala): Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi has dismissed BJP protests over the omission of Vande Mataram at the flag-off ceremony of the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express. He said that a strict protocol applies to rendering the national song, which could not have been fully observed during the inaugural function.

“Singing Vande Mataram at a railway station requires creating an environment that accords it the dignity it deserves, which is why it was omitted from the ceremony,” he said.

Suresh Gopi explained that such events omit the song specifically to uphold respect for Vande Mataram and prevent any potential disrespect. He noted that maintaining the required protocol amidst the rush at a railway station is difficult, and in situations where the dignity due to the song cannot be ensured, it is best not to recite it.

On Tuesday, Union Minister Suresh Gopi flagged off the expanded 16-coach Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express. The event was followed by a demonstration from BJP workers who staged a sit-in at Ernakulam South railway station to protest the omission of the Vande Mataram during the ceremony. Calling for action, the demonstrators demanded the suspension of the officials in charge of the event. The sit-in protest was called off after Suresh Gopi intervened to address the issue.