Nation

New Delhi: During a heated debate in the Lok Sabha on Vande Mataram, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi took a strong stance against attempts to equate patriotism with compulsory displays of loyalty. He argued that India gained independence because “we never merged religion with the nation,” urging lawmakers not to enforce patriotic rituals as a test of allegiance. “Patriotism Should Tackle Poverty, Not Become a Loyalty Test” Owaisi criticized those who had no role in the freedom struggle but now claim moral authority to define patriotism. “If you want to show patriotism, work to eradicate poverty,” he said. Targeting the BJP, he questioned whether the party intended to make Vande Mataram a “test of loyalty,” emphasizing that forcing it upon citizens w...

New Delhi: On Monday, during the Winter Session of Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and designated as the national song in 1950, Vande Mataram will be discussed for 10 hours in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha this week. The debate in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday will be led by Home Minister Amit Shah from the BJP. 1. Historical Significance of Vande MataramPM Modi recalled the song’s history and its national role. He noted that when Vande Mataram turned 50, India was still under British rule. By the time it reached 100, the country had faced the Emergency, and the Constitution had been suppressed. 2. Inspiration for the Freedom StruggleThe Prime Minister said the song ener...