Mumbai, August 23: Anand Dubey, spokesperson for Shiv Sena (UBT), addressed various topics including the Vande Mataram song, the initiative for auto and taxi drivers to learn Marathi, Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Students’ Echo’ program in Pune, and issues related to Gen-Z. He emphasized that there should be no controversy surrounding the Vande Mataram song.
In a conversation in Mumbai, Dubey stated that when the bill mandating the singing of Vande Mataram was passed in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, it was made clear that there are six verses to the song. Initially, many people only remembered the first two verses since those were traditionally sung. Now, with the requirement to sing all six verses, people are referring to the lyrics to sing along. Those who know the entire song are singing it. He pointed out that the Congress party claims that in 1937, leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Rabindranath Tagore decided to sing only two verses, and Congress continues to follow that decision.
Dubey remarked, “If the law states that six verses should be sung, then that should be the case. It should not become a matter of controversy.”
He also mentioned that the Maharashtra government had instructed auto and taxi drivers to learn Marathi by August 15. Following this, individuals are being stopped and assessed on their ability to communicate in the language. Some are passing the tests, while others are not. He noted that many people come from various states to earn a living, and those struggling to learn the language should be given more time. He believes that this issue should not be contentious, as most residents of Maharashtra and Mumbai have learned the language.
Regarding Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Students’ Echo’ program in Pune, Dubey stated that it is aimed at girls, women, daughters, and sisters, with students from all colleges participating together. He criticized the BJP for suggesting that these students are being brought in, calling it disrespectful. Some students arrive by bus, others by their own vehicles, and some use public transport. He stressed the importance of understanding their issues, as they seek improvements in the education system, which Rahul Gandhi is advocating for.
Dubey highlighted that approximately 65 to 70 percent of India’s population is young, with a significant role played by Gen-Z. He noted that around 24 to 25 crore students are enrolled in schools, and 5 to 6 crore are pursuing higher education, totaling about 30 crore individuals engaged in learning.
He concluded that it is crucial for all political parties to connect with Gen-Z. More importantly, the government, whether led by the BJP or NDA, must understand the concerns of Gen-Z. The education system, which is currently in poor condition, needs urgent reform.
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