Congress Cites Historian’s Remarks to Challenge PM on “Vande Mataram”

The Congress party has reignited the debate over the national song “Vande Mataram” by referencing comments made by historian Sugata Bose. On December 9, 2023, Bose stated that it was on the advice of Rabindranath Tagore that the Congress decided during its meeting in 1937 to sing only the first part of the song at national gatherings. This remark was shared by Congress general secretary in charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, who claimed it further exposes the stance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a video clip, Bose discusses the collaboration between Subhas Chandra Bose and India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, during the All India Congress Committee’s meeting in Calcutta in October-November of 1937. He explained that both leaders sought Tagore’s input on the sensitive issue of “Vande Mataram.” According to Bose, Tagore advised that only the first part of the song should be performed at national meetings to promote unity and avoid religious rivalry.

Bose elaborated on the significance of this decision, stating, “Tagore felt that we needed unity and good sense in our nationalist movement.” He pointed out that this moment was pivotal in bringing together diverse factions within the Congress party. Mahatma Gandhi’s support for Subhas Chandra Bose as the Congress president in 1938 was another sign of this unification.

Ramesh emphasized Bose’s credibility by noting his status as a Professor at Harvard University and Director of the Netaji Research Bureau in Kolkata. He also highlighted that Bose is the grandson of Sarat Chandra Bose, brother of Subhas Chandra Bose, and an author of key works about the historical figure. Ramesh’s comments, stating that “this conversation further exposes the PM,” came in response to Modi’s recent criticisms of the Congress party.

On December 8, Modi accused the Congress of betraying “Vande Mataram” by yielding to opposition from Mohammad Ali Jinnah, which he claims led to a fragmented understanding of the national song. This accusation occurred during a debate marking the 150th anniversary of “Vande Mataram,” where members of the ruling and opposition parties engaged in heated exchanges over nationalism and historical interpretation.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra countered Modi’s attacks with a measured yet pointed defense of Nehru and the Congress party’s legacy. She asserted that the government’s push for special discussions was politically motivated, particularly with the upcoming assembly elections in West Bengal in mind.

The Congress party, along with other opposition groups, has accused the BJP-led NDA government of attempting to rewrite history and politicizing the “Vande Mataram” issue. In response, members of the treasury benches have accused the Congress of engaging in appeasement politics. Priyanka Gandhi criticized the BJP for fostering controversy around “Vande Mataram,” claiming Modi has selectively quoted Nehru to fit a narrative.

This ongoing debate reflects deeper tensions within Indian politics regarding historical interpretation and national identity, as both parties seek to assert their perspectives ahead of critical elections. The discussion continues as both sides prepare to address the implications of their historical narratives on contemporary politics.