The Vande Mataram controversy has intensified, with the BJP escalating its attack on the Congress over the party’s decision to continue singing only the first two stanzas of the National Song at its events.On August 22, the BJP passed a resolution strongly condemning the Congress Working Committee’s decision to reaffirm its 1937 position on Vande Mataram. BJP president Nitin Nabin said the party would accept “no compromise” on the honour and legacy of the National Song and announced a nationwide campaign to highlight its history, meaning and significance.The BJP’s resolution also argues that the Congress’ 1937 decision cannot override the Constitution or Parliament’s 2026 legislation concerning Vande Mataram. The party plans a special awareness drive targeting younger Indians to explain the song’s full six-stanza history and its role in the freedom movement.The Congress, however, has defended its position. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the party is following the version historically accepted by leaders including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel, while rejecting the BJP’s allegations of disrespect toward the National Song.Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also sharply attacked the Congress decision, calling it “anti-national” and accusing the party of returning to what he described as appeasement politics. n18oc_super-saturday-debaten18oc_indian18oc_politicsCNN-News18 is your trusted source for breaking news, updates, and in-depth analysis from around the world. CNN-News18 is dedicated to bringing you the latest news, trends, and insights, helping you stay informed and up-to-date. Subscribe Now and join our community of informed and engaged viewers. Follow Every Breaking Story LIVE 🔴Watch News18 LIVE 24×7: https://youtube.com/live/rfDx1HMvXbQFollow us on Google: news18.co/cn18gFollow CNN News18 on X: https://x.com/CNNnews18Follow CNN News18 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cnnnews18/Follow CNN News18 on Facebook: facebook.com/cnnnews18 with latest headlines on politics, sports and entertainment on news18.comNews18 Mobile App – https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Last Updated: August 22, 2026, 22:59 IST
