Tensions Rise Between UDF Government and Governors Office on Kerala Assemblys First Day

May 29, 2026

Thiruvananthapuram, May 29: On the inaugural day of Kerala’s newly formed assembly, a clash erupted between the Congress-led UDF government and the Governor’s office. This dispute arose over the singing of “Vande Mataram” prior to Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar’s policy address.

During the official welcome, the Kerala police band played only the initial part of “Vande Mataram” and abruptly stopped, despite the Governor’s office instructing that the national song be played in full during Thursday’s rehearsal.

The state government did not accept this directive and insisted on adhering to the long-standing tradition of playing only the beginning. This disagreement marked an early confrontation between the new UDF government and the Governor’s office.

Political circles view this incident as a potential sign of future tensions between the government and the Governor’s office. This is particularly significant as it occurred on the assembly’s first major day, when 139 legislators took their oaths and a new Speaker was elected.

In the 140-member assembly, the Congress-led UDF government holds a significant majority with 102 legislators, while the left opposition has 35 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party has entered the assembly for the first time with three members, altering the political landscape.

Despite the tension, the Governor did not escalate the issue in the assembly. He began his address with a “Namaskaram” in Malayalam and made no direct reference to the “Vande Mataram” controversy or any differences with the government.

However, the political message was clear. The UDF government aims to signal that it will not easily yield to the Governor’s office on matters of tradition and protocol, while the Governor’s office seems unwilling to overlook public disregard for its directives.

Both sides have publicly shown restraint but remain firm in their positions. Consequently, this “Vande Mataram” dispute is seen as a potential precursor to increased tensions between the government and the Governor’s office in the future.