New Delhi: A special discussion on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram opened to sharp political exchanges on Monday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the occasion to revisit historical disagreements over the national song.

Initiating the debate in the Lok Sabha at 12 noon, Modi said the song had served as “a driving force” behind India’s freedom struggle and continued to inspire generations.

He noted, "Vande Mataram is the force that drives us to achieve the dreams our freedom fighters envisioned. Vande Mataram energised our freedom movement. It is a matter of pride for all of us that we are witnessing 150 years of Vande Mataram."

The Prime Minister then launched a pointed criticism of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, accusing him of conceding to communal sensitivities at the time of Independence.

"Nehru thought Vande Mataram would irritate Muslims. Jinnah (Muhammad Ali Jinnah) opposed Vande Mataram; Nehru agreed with Jinnah's sentiments," Modi said, triggering immediate murmurs within the House and drawing sharp political reactions outside Parliament.

More Context Added

The discussion marks a rare joint thematic debate in both Houses, focused entirely on the national song—its historical evolution, cultural significance, and role during the Independence movement.

Parliamentary Affairs Ministry officials said the debate aims to “acknowledge 150 years of a national symbol that shaped India’s consciousness.”

Opposition parties, while participating, are expected to counter the government’s narrative by highlighting what they describe as selective interpretations of historical events.

BJP MPs referred to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s 1875 composition as “an unparalleled civilisational marker,” while several members emphasised its continued resonance in contemporary nation-building. 

Sources indicated that the government may propose commemorative nationwide programmes over the next year to mark the 150-year milestone, though no formal announcement has been made yet.

Planned Interventions & Schedule

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will deliver the concluding remarks in the Lok Sabha debate later today, setting the government’s final position on the motion.

The Rajya Sabha will hold its discussion tomorrow, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah leading the debate. He will be followed by Union Health Minister and Leader of the House JP Nadda, who is expected to highlight the symbolic power of national icons in unifying the nation.

Session Background

The Winter Session, which began on December 1, has seen a packed legislative agenda and several politically tense debates. The session will run until December 19, with both Houses expected to take up key bills alongside thematic discussions such as today’s.

The 150-year commemoration of Vande Mataram comes at a time when national symbols have become a central point of political discourse, and Modi’s remarks ensured the discussion today was not merely ceremonial but politically charged.