Mumbai: Asiatic Society Moves To Remove Bhalchandra Mungekar As Chairman Over Vande Mataram Walkout

Mumbai, October 24, 2026: The Asiatic Society's management committee has decided to remove Bhalchandra Mungekar as Chairman of the Board of Trustees following his walkout during the singing of Vande Mataram at the Society's September 26 Annual General Meeting. The committee passed a resolution condemning Mungekar for his action and intends to inform the Society's Board of Trustees and general members about the decision.

A committee member stated that Mungekar is likely to be sacked as chairman at the Special General Meeting, but if he apologizes for his behavior, he may be spared. Despite the potential dismissal, Mungekar, a former Vice Chancellor of Mumbai University, will still retain his membership in the Society. The Asiatic Society's President, Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, described Mungekar's walkout as "unfortunate" and urged him to reflect on his actions, questioning why previous governments curtailed the national song.