Mumbai: Amid renewed political debates over the Vande Mataram song, Maharashtra Congress State President Harshwardhan Sapkal has reminded critics of its historical and national significance.
Speaking to reporters, Sapkal said, “In 1896, during the Calcutta session of the Congress Committee before independence, Vande Mataram was sung for the very first time. Since then, it has held a sacred place in India’s history. It was sung before the commencement of the Parliament, State Legislative Assemblies, and even during the sessions of the Constituent Assembly.”
He emphasized that Vande Mataram is not a political slogan but a symbol of India’s freedom struggle and unity. “The Congress party has always respected and upheld the dignity of Vande Mataram. Those trying to politicize it for narrow gains are disrespecting the legacy of our freedom fighters,” he added.
