Vande Mataram row: What was Congress’ 1937 resolution
The Congress said the 1937 resolution recommending that only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram be sung at national gatherings reflected the view of several leading figures of the freedom movement
The escalating controversy over the Congress' decision to sing only two stanzas of Vande Mataram intensified on August 20, 2026, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah vehemently criticizing the party. The Congress vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that their stance respected the song and accusing the BJP of manufacturing a political controversy.
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused BJP leaders of being "fraudulent nationalists". The conflict escalated after the Congress Working Committee decided to adhere to the 1937 resolution on Vande Mataram, stating only two stanzas would be sung at party events. However, charges of insensitivity were also made against Congress President Sonia Gandhi, who was seen gesturing towards party president Mallikarjun Kharge while the song was being played.
The Congress dismissed these accusations, insisting the full song was sung. The issue was later resolved at the Congress Working Committee meeting, where it was decided to play only the first two stanzas at party events. The BJP, however, continues to accuse the Congress of political motives and disrespect towards the National Song.
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