Shimla, August 21: Political tensions have escalated in Himachal Pradesh following a ruckus in the state assembly over the national song ‘Vande Mataram.’ Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi accused the BJP of orchestrating the uproar as part of a premeditated strategy. He claimed that the BJP is attempting to divert public attention from pressing issues by promoting ‘fake nationalism.’
Negi pointed out that this was the first time in the assembly’s history that the traditional proceedings on the first day were disrupted. Typically, the assembly honors deceased members with obituaries on the first day, but the BJP’s disruption affected this tradition.
He questioned the urgency that led to the disruption over ‘Vande Mataram.’ The BJP not only impacted the question hour but also tarnished the assembly’s longstanding and respected traditions. He noted that the absence of the opposition leader allowed another senior BJP leader to adopt this strategy for political gain.
Discussing the history of ‘Vande Mataram,’ Negi emphasized its role as an inspiration during the Indian freedom struggle. He credited Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay for its creation and mentioned that leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Jawaharlal Nehru, along with millions of countrymen, embraced it as a source of motivation. He pointed out that the BJP did not even exist during the freedom movement, and those associated with its ideology did not play an active role in the struggle.
Negi criticized attempts to present certain individuals as freedom fighters who allegedly sought forgiveness from the British. He argued that the BJP raises the issue of ‘fake nationalism’ to distract the public from pressing matters that directly affect their lives, such as unemployment, inflation, youth issues, farmers’ problems, controversies surrounding competitive exams, and corruption. These issues deserve discussion, yet controversies related to nationalism are being prioritized instead.
He also referenced controversies surrounding youth examinations, NEET, and alleged paper leaks, as well as the border dispute with China, emphasizing the importance of issues related to farmers, youth, and the military. Negi targeted the BJP over the Agniveer scheme, asserting that discussions on these matters are crucial, but the focus is being shifted to political issues like ‘Vande Mataram.’
Negi stated that no one needs to be told what patriotism is, as ordinary citizens sing this song with pride and respect. He questioned the BJP, asking what role their ideological predecessors played regarding ‘Vande Mataram’ during the freedom struggle. He expressed concern that political and ideological disputes are being injected into the song, potentially undermining the country’s unity, integrity, and secularism.
The Revenue Minister also criticized the BJP’s methods of protest in the assembly. He acknowledged the opposition’s right to express their views but insisted that disrupting the assembly’s traditions and proceedings is inappropriate. He questioned why the opposition halted obituaries, question hours, and other legislative work. If the BJP wanted to sing ‘Vande Mataram,’ they could have done so according to the assembly’s established procedures and timelines.
Negi raised concerns about discussions surrounding new protocols and laws related to ‘Vande Mataram.’ He noted that laws in a democracy are made based on majority, but future governments can amend or repeal those laws. No law should be considered absolute; each should be evaluated based on its necessity, purpose, and social impact.
He concluded by stating that topics like the national anthem and national song are tied to the country’s unity and integrity. Such issues should not become a means of political confrontation. If any process or change raises questions about the secular nature, unity, and integrity of the country, it should be taken seriously.
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