Bindal Demands Congress Apology Over Vande Mataram Row

Shimla, August 22, 2026: BJP Himachal Pradesh president Dr. Rajeev Bindal has criticised the Congress over its reported opposition to the singing of the complete Vande Mataram in the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, describing the stand as disrespectful to the sentiments associated with India’s freedom struggle.

Bindal said Vande Mataram had played an important role during the freedom movement and served as a source of inspiration for generations of freedom fighters. He said those who sacrificed their lives during the struggle deserved respect for the ideals and symbols associated with the movement.

“Congress must explain to the people why it has an objection to the complete singing of Vande Mataram and should apologise to the nation,” Bindal said.

The BJP leader accused the Congress of allowing political considerations to influence matters related to national pride. He alleged that vote-bank and appeasement politics had taken precedence over national interests.

Bindal said Vande Mataram was not the property of any political party but was deeply connected with India’s national movement. He maintained that issues concerning national unity, integrity and pride should not be viewed through the lens of political convenience.

Calling upon Congress to reconsider its position, Bindal said the BJP would continue to raise the issue and oppose what he described as any compromise on national pride.