Police launch probe after national anthem, Vande Mataram sung simultaneously at Kozhikode Corporation
Police record BJP councillor’s statement; no FIR registered yet
The police have initiated an investigation following the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony at the Kozhikode Corporation, which saw contradictory performances of the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and the national song, Vande Mataram. The Kozhikode Town police received three complaints about the incident. Complaining council members include K. Rajeev of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), S.V.
Mohammed Shameel Thangal of the United Democratic Front (UDF), and BJP councillor Navya Haridas. The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Kozhikode Town Sub-Division) T.K. Asharaf has been assigned to investigate the complaints.
The LDF and UDF complained that BJP councillors disrespected the national anthem by singing Vande Mataram alongside it. In contrast, the BJP alleged that the national anthem was improperly sung when Vande Mataram was played. After the confusion, the BJP councillors continued to sing Vande Mataram, while the ruling front councillors concluded.
On Sunday, Town police recorded Navya Haridas's statement. He stated that they were awaiting other councillors' statements, some of whom were away. No FIR had been filed, and a decision would be made after considering legal and other factors. The ceremony commenced around 9.30 a.m. outside the Corporation office.
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