A political controversy has erupted over a viral video from the Congress headquarters in Delhi during Independence Day celebrations, with BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari accusing Sonia Gandhi of objecting to the singing of “Vande Mataram” and demanding an unconditional apology.
Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and several other senior party leaders attended the Independence Day programme at the party headquarters on Saturday. During the event, a group of young women were performing “Vande Mataram”. A video circulating on social media appears to show Sonia Gandhi making gestures that some viewers interpreted as an instruction to stop or interrupt the performance. Rahul Gandhi was also seen making similar gestures, according to reports.
The video quickly triggered criticism from BJP leaders and supporters, who accused the Congress leadership of disrespecting the national song. However, the interpretation of the gestures has become a matter of political debate.
Addressing a press conference at Nabanna on Sunday, Suvendu Adhikari strongly criticised Sonia Gandhi and said the incident had offended the sentiments associated with the freedom movement and Indian nationalism. He described “Vande Mataram” as a powerful symbol of the freedom struggle and demanded that Sonia Gandhi apologise without conditions.
Meanwhile, Sumitro Bandyopadhyay, BJP MLA from Naihati and a great-grandson of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, has reportedly written to Sonia Gandhi over the controversy. Adhikari displayed a copy of the letter during his press conference.
The controversy has intensified on social media, with political parties trading accusations over the interpretation of the viral footage.
