Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Delhi Police have begun an inquiry into a complaint filed against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi over alleged disrespect to Vande Mataram. A lawyer submitted the complaint at the IP Estate police station on August 16, seeking registration of an FIR against the two leaders.
According to the complaint, Sonia Gandhi allegedly made certain gestures after the opening portion of Vande Mataram, which the complainant interpreted as an objection to continuing the rendition.
The complaint also mentions a video in which Rahul Gandhi is allegedly heard saying, “We will not sing Vande Mataram.” The complainant has cited the video as part of the allegations and urged the police to take legal action.
The issue has also triggered political reactions in Karnataka. The BJP has filed separate complaints against Sonia Gandhi in Bengaluru and Mangaluru, accusing her of disrespecting Vande Mataram and demanding action.
In Bengaluru, the BJP Yuva Morcha submitted a complaint at the Malleswaram police station, while BJP leaders in Mangaluru approached the Urwa police station. Police have not registered an FIR in either case so far.
Karnataka BJP Yuva Morcha state president and MLA Dheeraj Muniraj said Sonia and Rahul Gandhi should apologise to the people over the alleged disrespect. He said the BJP’s protest would continue until an apology is made.
In Mangaluru, BJP leaders also described Sonia Gandhi’s alleged conduct during the rendition as inappropriate and sought action, saying the incident had hurt sentiments associated with Vande Mataram.
The controversy comes amid the recent passage of legislation by Parliament concerning the legal protection accorded to Vande Mataram. The new provisions reportedly place the national song on a legal footing comparable to Jana Gana Mana and provide for imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both for deliberate disrespect or obstruction during its rendition.
