Mamata Banerjee Flays Ban on “Vande Mataram” and “Jai Hind” Slogans in Rajya Sabha

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticized the decision to prohibit slogans such as “Jai Hind” and “Vande Mataram” in the Rajya Sabha. Speaking out against the move, the Trinamool Congress chief questioned the logic behind it, emphasizing the patriotic significance of these slogans.

Addressing the issue, Mamata said, “Why shouldn’t we say it? ‘Jai Hind’ and ‘Vande Mataram’ are our national songs and slogans of freedom. ‘Jai Hind’ was also Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s slogan. Anyone who opposes them will face the consequences.”

The Rajya Sabha bulletin instructed members not to use phrases such as “Thanks,” “Thank you,” “Jai Hind,” or “Vande Mataram” within the House. The notice also reminded MPs to refrain from criticizing the Chair’s decisions both inside and outside the House, and emphasized that members must remain present if a response is expected during debates, in accordance with parliamentary etiquette.

This directive comes amid heightened tensions over voter list revisions (SIR) in West Bengal, with Mamata launching a sharp attack on the central government and the Election Commission.

Upcoming Parliamentary Session:
The winter session of Parliament will begin on 1 December and conclude on 19 December. Newly elected Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan will preside over the Upper House, succeeding previous confrontations involving former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, which had even escalated to impeachment notices—later dismissed by Deputy Chairman Harivansh.

Mamata’s comments signal a continuation of her robust opposition stance, particularly as the SIR debate intensifies in the state.