vande-mataram-row-police-probes-allegations-against-gandhis

The Delhi Police on Monday began an enquiry into a complaint filed against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi over an alleged incident during the singing of Vande Mataram at the party's Independence Day function at its headquarters in New Delhi.

 

The complaint was filed at the IP Estate police station on August 16 by an advocate, who has sought registration of an FIR against the two Congress leaders. Police said they were examining the allegations and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

 

According to the complaint, Vande Mataram was being sung during the August 15 function at the All India Congress Committee headquarters when Sonia Gandhi allegedly made gestures after the initial portion of the song had been performed. The complainant claimed that her gestures appeared to indicate an objection to the continuation of the rendition.

 

The complaint also refers to a purported video in which Rahul Gandhi is allegedly heard saying, “We are not singing Vande Mataram.” The complainant has sought an impartial investigation and appropriate action if the two leaders are found responsible.

 

The controversy erupted after visuals from the Independence Day event showed Sonia Gandhi appearing to gesture during the rendition of the full version of Vande Mataram. The episode subsequently triggered a political row, with the BJP accusing Congress leaders of disrespecting the national song. Congress has rejected the allegations.

 

The police enquiry comes amid a wider political debate over the singing of Vande Mataram. The issue has gained further attention after Parliament recently passed legislation granting the national song status on par with the national anthem.

 

The complaint seeks action against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi based on the alleged conduct during the programme. The police are yet to indicate whether an FIR will be registered.

 

The BJP has stepped up its criticism of the Congress leadership over the incident, accusing Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge of showing “utter disrespect” towards Vande Mataram. The Congress has denied the charge.

 

The Delhi Police said its present action is an enquiry into the complaint. Further steps will depend on the findings of the investigation and the material examined by the police.