Shimla, August 26: Rajesh Dharmani, the Technical Education Minister of Himachal Pradesh, addressed various issues during a press conference on Wednesday. He responded to the BJP’s demand to start the assembly session with the national song instead of the national anthem. According to him, as the assembly session was about to commence with the national anthem, BJP members raised objections. They cited a directive from the Union Home Ministry, suggesting that the session should begin with the national song instead. Dharmani questioned what message the BJP aims to convey to the public by making such demands.
He emphasized that both the national anthem and the national song deserve respect. The people of India sang these to rally against the British and secure independence. Both the national anthem and song were performed during Congress sessions as well. By insisting on the national song over the anthem, the BJP sends a misleading message to the public, which is unacceptable. Our chairman has made it clear that we will proceed according to our traditions and will not compromise on them.
Dharmani pointed out that the bill introduced in Parliament did not specify whether the assembly session should begin with the national anthem or the national song. This decision is entirely up to the assembly. So far, there has been no directive from the top leadership regarding this matter. He urged the BJP to apologize for trying to create controversy by comparing the national anthem and song. It is regrettable that the BJP continues to engage in divisive politics, believing it will benefit them.
He also claimed that the BJP is attempting to distract the public from the anger of youth over issues like the Ram Temple and NEET paper leaks by stirring up controversy over Vande Mataram. Allegations of corruption in Ram Temple donations and the NEET paper leaks have incited youth protests. Young people from across the country gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi to voice their concerns against the government. There have been four incidents of NEET paper leaks during the BJP’s tenure, including several in Himachal Pradesh. In response, the state government formed a State Selection Commission and dissolved the Service Election Board. The BJP’s discussion on Vande Mataram appears to be a tactic to divert attention from these pressing issues.
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