Patna, February 14, 2026: A heated debate has erupted in Bihar over the national song Vande Mataram, with Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha and Akhtarul Iman, Bihar state president of AIMIM, exchanging sharp statements. The issue has reignited political tensions in the state, drawing attention to questions of national pride and secularism.
Vijay Sinha: “Vande Mataram is the Mantra of Freedom”
Responding to Akhtarul Iman’s remarks, Deputy CM Sinha described Vande Mataram as a symbol of national valor and unity. Speaking to the media, he said, “Vande Mataram represents our national pride and is the great mantra of freedom. Those who love their country should have no objection to it. It must be accepted by everyone under all circumstances.”
Sinha also spoke about administrative priorities, emphasizing the government’s focus on transparent recruitment for vacant posts to ensure opportunities for youth and smooth functioning of departments.
Akhtarul Iman: “Political Exploitation of National Symbols”
On the other hand, AIMIM’s Bihar chief Akhtarul Iman criticized the controversy as part of “frenzied politics.” He said, “Indian secularism teaches us to respect all religions while following our own. Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom to observe their culture and traditions.”
He further questioned the selective patriotism being projected: “Were Gandhi, Nehru, Patel, and Maulana Azad not nationalists? Those who couldn’t even hoist the tricolor in their offices for 50 years are now giving certificates of patriotism.”
Bengal Elections and ‘Anandamath’ Connection
Akhtarul Iman also linked the controversy to upcoming elections in Bengal. He claimed that the emphasis on Vande Mataram is being deliberately amplified as an electoral strategy, citing the connection of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s Anandamath with Bengal, and warned that such moves are intended to create social tension for political gain.
The exchange highlights how issues of national symbols continue to generate political debates, particularly in the lead-up to state and regional elections.
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