BJP Praises NC Leaders for Standing During Vande Mataram Performance, Criticizes Congress

Jammu, September 9 (Daily Kiran) : During the inaugural ceremony of the first International Film Festival held in Jammu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah stood throughout the performance of ‘Vande Mataram.’ This act has drawn praise from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which also took the opportunity to criticize the Congress party.

BJP MP Jugal Kishore Sharma commented that Congress has never demonstrated true dedication to the nation. He stated, “Congress has no connection with the country. People believe in inspiring actions that prioritize the nation over party and family. However, Congress has consistently put its party and family first, neglecting the country. They have worked to divide the nation, not unite it, so we have no expectations from Congress.”

Sharma further emphasized the importance of ‘Vande Mataram,’ noting that it is celebrated across the country. “If Congress had any shame, they would honor the song ‘Vande Mataram,'” he added. He highlighted that Kashmir has witnessed terrorism and turmoil, yet today, ‘Vande Mataram’ is being sung there. “All of Kashmir stands for ‘Vande Mataram.’ We are bound by the Constitution, and standing for this national song is a matter of pride for all of us.”

BJP legislator Vikram Randhawa also applauded the National Conference’s gesture. He remarked, “From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, India is one. When we speak of India, we cannot view Kashmir separately. The International Film Festival in Kashmir is a historic event, and this should be seen as a commendable step. The Chief Minister and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah not only stood for ‘Vande Mataram’ but also pronounced and honored it, which is praiseworthy.”

Randhawa addressed those questioning what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved, stating that many changes are evident today. “As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram,’ everyone feels its significance as our national song. It is essential to remember this national anthem. Congress embodies an anti-national mindset, and we cannot expect much from them.”

He added, “Except for a handful of Congress members, even those who identify as Congress supporters must feel ashamed when they hear such statements from their leaders. They recognize the importance of ‘Vande Mataram’ in the life of every Indian. This song is not for a specific community; it is a national anthem that should be recited regularly. It should be part of the curriculum, teaching children from nursery age to learn both the national anthem and ‘Vande Mataram.'”