Delhi Police has launched an inquiry into a complaint alleging that Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi showed disrespect toward the National Song during Independence Day celebrations.

  • Delhi Police is investigating a complaint filed at IP Estate Police Station.
  • Sonia Gandhi is accused of making gestures indicating objection to the National Song.
  • A video allegedly showing Rahul Gandhi saying "We are not singing Vande Mataram" is part of the probe.
  • The BJP has termed the incident as "utter disrespect," while Congress calls it a political diversion.

New Delhi: The Delhi Police have officially confirmed that they are enquiring into a complaint regarding an alleged incident during the singing of 'Vande Mataram' at the Independence Day function held at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters on August 15.

The legal battle began on August 16, when a practicing advocate filed a complaint at the IP Estate Police Station. The complainant has urged the authorities to register a First Information Report (FIR) against senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and former Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Details of the Allegations

According to the formal complaint, while the National Song was being performed, Ms. Sonia Gandhi allegedly made specific gestures after the initial portion of the song. The complainant asserts that these gestures appeared to indicate a clear objection to the continuation of the rendition.

The legal status of national symbols is highly protected in India; any perceived disrespect can lead to severe legal repercussions under the National Honours Act.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the timing of this complaint is critical. Parliament recently passed legislation granting 'Vande Mataram' a status on par with the National Anthem. Consequently, any perceived slight toward the song is no longer just a social faux pas but a potential legal violation with significant political ramifications.

The political fallout has been immediate. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Congress leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge, of showing a lack of patriotism. In response, the Congress party has vehemently denied the charges, labeling the entire controversy as a calculated "political diversion" designed to shift focus from other national issues.

Historical context suggests that 'Vande Mataram', written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, has long been a focal point of Indian nationalist sentiment, making any controversy surrounding it highly volatile in the current socio-political climate.

Did You Know?: 'Vande Mataram' was the primary anthem of the Indian independence movement before 'Jana Gana Mana' was officially adopted as the National Anthem in 1950.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the basis of the complaint against Rahul Gandhi?
A: The complaint refers to a video in which Mr. Gandhi is allegedly heard stating, "We are not singing Vande Mataram."

Q2: Which police station is handling the case?
A: The inquiry is being conducted by the IP Estate Police Station in New Delhi.