Delhi Police Enquires into Complaint Over Vande Mataram Incident Involving Congress Leaders
Delhi Police confirmed on Monday that it is enquiring into a formal complaint regarding an alleged incident during the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ at the Congress headquarters during the Independence Day celebrations. The complaint seeks the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
What Happened
The issue stems from an event held at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters on August 15, where senior party figures—including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge—gathered for the 80th Independence Day function.
On August 16, an advocate lodged a formal complaint at the IP Estate Police Station in Delhi. According to the complaint, gestures were allegedly made by Sonia Gandhi after the initial portion of the National Song was sung, which the complainant alleged indicated an objection to its continuation. The complaint also cited a video where Rahul Gandhi was allegedly heard stating, “We are not singing Vande Mataram.”
Based on these allegations, the complainant requested an impartial investigation and appropriate legal action if the leaders are determined to be responsible. On August 17, Delhi Police stated that the complaint regarding the alleged incident is currently being enquired into.
Key Highlights
- Police Enquiry Underway: Delhi Police confirmed that an enquiry has been initiated following a complaint lodged at the IP Estate Police Station.
- Parties Named: The complaint specifically requests an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
- Allegations in Complaint: The complainant cited alleged gestures by Sonia Gandhi and video footage of Rahul Gandhi allegedly saying, “We are not singing Vande Mataram.”
- Political Reactions: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge of demonstrating “utter disrespect” toward the National Song, an accusation that the Congress party has denied.
- Legal Context: Parliament recently enacted legislation placing ‘Vande Mataram’ on par with the National Anthem.
Why This Matters
The enquiry comes in the wake of legislation recently passed by Parliament that formally elevated the status of ‘Vande Mataram’ to be on par with the National Anthem. Consequently, allegations of disrespect toward the National Song during a major national celebration have triggered direct political confrontation between the ruling BJP and the Congress leadership.
What to Watch Next
The immediate step is the conclusion of the preliminary enquiry by the Delhi Police at the IP Estate Police Station, which will decide whether the allegations warrant the registration of an FIR or further formal legal proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Delhi Police currently investigating?
Delhi Police is conducting an enquiry into a complaint submitted by an advocate alleging that an incident occurred during the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ at the AICC headquarters on August 15.
Who are the leaders named in the complaint?
The complainant has sought the registration of an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.
What has been the Congress party’s response?
The Congress party has denied the allegations of disrespect toward the National Song leveled by the BJP.
Source: Based on a report originally published by The Hindu.