Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday criticised the Congress over its decision to continue singing only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at party events, accusing the opposition party of pursuing “appeasement and vote-bank politics”.

Shah said the Congress had repeated the position adopted by the party in 1937 and argued that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had now “corrected” that decision. He called on people to oppose any move against the full version of the national song and said the BJP would raise the issue publicly as well as in State Assemblies.

The remarks came a day after the Congress Working Committee reaffirmed its position to sing the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram at party programmes, citing the historical decision taken by Congress leaders in 1937. 

Shah Targets Congress

Shah alleged that the Congress had divided Vande Mataram into two parts in 1937 and was now following the same approach.

He described the party's position as an example of appeasement politics and said such politics would not succeed in India. BJP president Nitin Nabin also criticised the Congress, alleging that its decision was motivated by vote-bank considerations. 

The controversy has placed the national song at the centre of another political confrontation between the BJP and Congress, with both parties invoking different interpretations of its history and use at public events.

Congress Cites 1937 Decision

Congress general secretary K.C. Venugopal said the party would follow the position adopted by its senior leaders in 1937, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rabindranath Tagore, Subhas Chandra Bose and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has previously explained that the issue was discussed by the Congress Working Committee in October 1937. According to Ramesh, the decision followed discussions among several prominent leaders over the portions of the song that should be used at Congress gatherings. 

The Congress has maintained that singing the first two stanzas at its events follows this historical convention rather than representing disrespect towards the national song.

Row Over Independence Day Event

The latest confrontation follows a controversy at the Congress headquarters in New Delhi during the Independence Day celebrations on August 15.

The BJP had alleged that Sonia Gandhi appeared uncomfortable during a rendition of the full version of Vande Mataram and suggested that she wanted the song stopped. Congress rejected the allegation, with Jairam Ramesh saying there had been no attempt to interrupt the song. He said Sonia Gandhi had been standing for a long period and had asked for a chair.

The episode subsequently became a political issue, with BJP leaders accusing Congress of disrespecting the national song. 

Legal Protection Expanded

The political dispute comes weeks after Parliament passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

The legislation extends statutory protection under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, to Vande Mataram. It makes intentional prevention of the national song's singing or causing disturbance to an assembly engaged in singing it punishable by imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both. 

The legislation was passed by Parliament at the end of July. 

Importantly, the legal provisions concern deliberate obstruction or disturbance of the singing. They should not automatically be read as making every instance of an individual choosing not to sing a criminal offence. 

History of Vande Mataram

Written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Vande Mataram became one of the most recognisable symbols of India's freedom movement. Rabindranath Tagore famously sang it at an Indian National Congress session in 1896.

The song was later included in Chattopadhyay's novel Anandamath and came to occupy a significant place in India's nationalist movement.

The current political dispute, however, centres less on the song's historical importance and more on whether its full version should be routinely sung at political and public functions.

BJP-Congress Clash Continues

The disagreement over Vande Mataram has now developed into a broader political contest over nationalism, the Congress's historical decisions and the government's efforts to promote the complete rendition of the national song.

While the BJP has accused Congress of appeasement politics, the Congress has defended its position by referring to the decisions of leaders of the freedom movement.

With both parties preparing to take their respective positions to the public, the Vande Mataram controversy is likely to remain a prominent political issue in the coming days.

Party president Mallikarjun Kharge outlined the plan in a detailed post on X, using the phrase "chanda chori" — loosely, "donation theft" — to describe the alleged embezzlement scandal at Ayodhya's Ram Temple, which he framed as a betrayal of religious faith. Alongside that, Kharge listed examination paper leaks and what he called the systemic erosion of the education system, allegations of institutional capture, political defections, multiple corruption scandals, persistent price rises, foreign policy setbacks, the government's ethanol blending mandate affecting an estimated 3.5 crore vehicle owners, unchecked deforestation, and what the party describes as continued erosion of rights for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and minorities.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, briefing reporters after the meeting, said the party would specifically press for a discussion on the Ram Temple donations issue, saying fresh developments in the case were surfacing daily and that Congress intended to raise what it characterises as a scandal linked to the BJP and RSS in Ayodhya. He said the party would also raise concerns tied to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and broader worries about the state of India's education system.

On the foreign policy front, Ramesh said Congress wants a dedicated debate covering India's relationships with China, the United States and the evolving situation in West Asia, along with what he described as the strategic implications of Pakistan's deepening ties with Washington. He voiced frustration with how past sessions have unfolded, saying the government typically promises to prioritise opposition-raised issues at all-party meetings but then focuses primarily on passing legislation instead, leaving little room for the discussions opposition parties actually push for.

Beyond the issues list, Ramesh also flagged that the Congress had learned the government was preparing to reintroduce the Delimitation Bill, after failing to get it passed in April, and said the party would oppose it "with full strength," working to keep the broader opposition united against the legislation.

The Monsoon Session is scheduled to run from July 20 to August 13, and Thursday's strategy meeting was attended by Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and other senior party figures including KC Venugopal and Shashi Tharoor. With both the Ram Temple donation controversy and the Delimitation Bill already generating friction well before Parliament convenes, the session is shaping up as one of the more contentious in recent years.

Addressing party workers, Navin alleged that Congress leaders continue to operate with an “Italian mindset,” a remark widely seen as an indirect reference to senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. He claimed that such politics has hindered the country's progress and weakened efforts aimed at ensuring long-term stability and development.

The BJP leader said political parties should focus on national interests rather than what he described as divisive politics. He argued that India’s growth depends on political stability, transparent governance and development-oriented policies.

During his speech, Navin also raised allegations related to the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, one of Telangana’s largest infrastructure projects. He accused Congress leaders of attempting to shield alleged irregularities linked to the project and claimed that public resources had not been utilized effectively.

The Congress has repeatedly denied allegations of corruption and has often countered similar accusations by targeting both the BJP and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) on governance-related issues. However, Navin used the occasion to reiterate the BJP’s demand for accountability in matters involving public expenditure and infrastructure development.

A significant portion of his address focused on former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao. Navin alleged that Congress failed to give Rao the respect he deserved despite his contributions to the country. He described Rao as one of India's most influential leaders and argued that his legacy was not adequately acknowledged by his own party.

The remarks are politically significant in Telangana, where Narasimha Rao remains a respected figure. His role in India's economic reforms and national politics continues to hold relevance across party lines.

Navin also questioned the pace of Telangana’s development more than a decade after the state's formation. Telangana was created in 2014 following a prolonged movement for separate statehood, and political parties continue to debate whether the aspirations of the movement have been fully realized.

According to the BJP leader, the state still faces governance challenges that require a new political approach. He alleged that regional and national opposition parties have failed to deliver the level of development expected by citizens and called for greater public support for the BJP.

The BJP leader further accused Congress, the BRS and Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM of engaging in political arrangements that, in his view, prioritize electoral interests over development. The parties involved have previously rejected similar allegations and maintained that their political strategies are aimed at serving the people of Telangana.

Looking ahead to upcoming local body and municipal elections, Navin urged party workers to strengthen the BJP's organizational presence across the state. He called for the establishment of a “double-engine government,” a term frequently used by the BJP to describe governance by the party at both the Centre and the state level.

The BJP has been working to expand its footprint in Telangana, where it sees opportunities to emerge as a stronger political force. Navin told party workers that the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) would require rapid development across all states, including Telangana.

His remarks come at a time when political activity in Telangana is intensifying ahead of future electoral contests, with major parties sharpening their campaigns and positioning themselves around issues of governance, development and regional aspirations.

The seventh meeting of the INDIA bloc concluded at the Constitution Club here on Monday, with top opposition leaders reaching a five-point consensus on key national issues ranging from electoral reforms to economic distress. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced the decisions after hours of deliberations, signalling an attempt by the alliance to regroup ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, and several others attended the meeting in person, while Uddhav Thackeray and Hemant Soren joined virtually. Kharge later told reporters that 23 to 25 parties participated and a broad agreement was reached despite differing regional concerns.

Leaders Gather After Two-Year Gap

The meeting comes nearly two years after the last formal INDIA bloc gathering in Delhi in June 2024. In the interim, the alliance navigated multiple state polls with mixed results — fighting united in some states like Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand, but separately in others including Kerala and West Bengal.

Senior leaders described the Monday huddle as an opportunity to address common challenges posed by the ruling NDA. Kharge highlighted issues such as alleged misuse of central agencies, economic slowdown, and youth unemployment.

Five Key Decisions Announced

After the meeting, Kharge outlined the consensus points. The alliance decided to send a letter to the Chief Justice of India raising concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and alleged irregularities in the electoral process. 

The bloc also unanimously demanded the immediate resignation of the Union Education Minister, citing lapses in the conduct of NEET and CBSE examinations that affected lakhs of students. 

A third point called upon the Centre to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the “precarious” economic situation, rising prices, unemployment, and farmers’ issues. 

Also Read: Internal rumblings surface as INDIA bloc convenes in national capital

Regular Coordination Planned

In a bid to strengthen unity, parties agreed to meet physically every two months. The next meeting is scheduled for Hyderabad in August. Additionally, parliamentary floor coordination will continue during the upcoming Monsoon Session, with daily morning meetings at the office of Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Kharge emphasised that all parties shared their views freely and consensus emerged on fighting together on people-centric issues.

UnderCurrents of Tension

The meeting took place against a backdrop of visible strains within the alliance. Posters targeting Rahul Gandhi and the Congress appeared on Akbar Road earlier in the day, which Youth Congress workers later removed. Several leaders dismissed the posters as “cheap tactics” possibly aimed at creating divisions. 

Regional frictions were also evident. Parties from Kerala and Jharkhand have expressed unhappiness over recent Congress decisions, while seat-sharing talks for future polls remain delicate. Mamata Banerjee’s attendance drew attention amid reports of some Trinamool Congress MPs exploring other options. Despite these challenges, leaders projected a show of unity, with Sonia Gandhi and Mamata seen sharing warm moments.

Sharad Pawar, who attended with daughter Supriya Sule, noted that no immediate major decisions were expected but discussions would continue. He spoke of evolving a “formula” to prevent rigidity and maintain alliance cohesion, especially with no major national polls for the next few years.

Opposition Eyes United Front

The INDIA bloc, formed in 2023, had tasted success in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, restricting the BJP from a majority on its own. Since then, it has seen both victories and setbacks in state elections. Monday’s meeting is seen as an effort to recalibrate strategy ahead of the 2029 general elections and upcoming state polls in states like Uttar Pradesh.

Congress leaders expressed confidence that the alliance remained united at the national level despite local differences. RJD’s Manoj Kumar Jha and others called for addressing internal issues on appropriate platforms rather than through public posturing.

As the Monsoon Session approaches, the opposition is expected to press the government on economic concerns, education reforms, and electoral integrity. The decisions taken today are likely to shape their parliamentary strategy in the coming weeks. 

The development comes at a time when opposition parties are seeking to counter what they describe as “misgovernance” on multiple fronts. How effectively they translate today’s consensus into coordinated action will be watched closely in the days ahead.

Delimitation Is the Real Threat, Not Women's Quota: Sonia Gandhi

Congress Parliamentary Party chief questions timing of special Parliament session as debate over Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam amendments heats up ahead of April 16 sitting

Gandhi Targets Special Session

Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Monday asserted that the core issue behind the government's decision to convene a special sitting of Parliament this week is delimitation — not women's reservation — and described the reported delimitation proposal as posing an existential threat to the Constitution itself.

Writing in an opinion article published in The Hindu, Gandhi accused the Modi government of using the Women's Reservation Bill as political cover while pushing through a far more consequential exercise in redrawn parliamentary boundaries.

Political Timing Under Fire

Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking support from opposition parties for bills the government intends to force through Parliament at a time when election campaigns in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal are at their peak, with the only plausible explanation being an attempt to derive political advantage and put the opposition on the back foot.

She also criticised the government for declining repeated requests from opposition parties to hold an all-party meeting after the conclusion of Assembly elections on April 29, before taking up the constitutional amendments.

On the Reservation Timeline

Gandhi noted that Parliament had unanimously passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in September 2023, introducing Article 334-A, which mandated one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, subject to the completion of the next census and a delimitation exercise. She pointed out that the opposition had never asked for this condition — in fact, Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge had demanded women's reservation be implemented from the 2024 general elections itself, a demand the government rejected.

Now, according to Gandhi, Article 334-A is set to be amended so that the reservation comes into effect from 2029 — and she questioned why the Prime Minister had taken over 30 months to reverse his own position on the matter.

The Delimitation Warning

Gandhi clarified that the opposition's objection is not to 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures — that debate has been settled — but to the delimitation process being rushed through ahead of the 2027 census.

She stressed that any increase in the strength of the Lok Sabha through delimitation must be politically equitable, not merely arithmetical, warning that a proportionate increase could magnify existing regional imbalances and reduce the relative influence of some states.

According to available but unofficial information, the Lok Sabha could expand from 543 to 816 seats following the amendment, with a separate Delimitation Bill to be introduced alongside the constitutional amendment.

Census Delay Argument Rejected

Gandhi took aim at the government's stated justification for acting before the census, pointing out that Bihar and Telangana each conducted comprehensive caste surveys within six months, undermining arguments that such exercises require prolonged lead time. She also noted that senior government officials have publicly stated that most population enumeration data from Census 2027 will be available in 2027 itself — making the special session's urgency appear hollow.

Caste Census Concern

Gandhi further alleged that PM Modi's actual intent is to delay and derail the caste census, pointing to the government's record of filing affidavits in the Supreme Court rejecting caste enumeration, before reversing course approximately a year ago when the 2027 census was announced as a caste census. She argued the sudden change in position lacked credibility.

Opposition's Demand and BJP's Whip

Gandhi said the monsoon session of Parliament is set to begin in mid-July and argued there is ample time for the government to hold proper consultations and introduce the amendment bills then, rather than rushing them through a three-day special sitting.

Meanwhile, the BJP issued a three-line whip to all its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, directing them to be present in Parliament from April 16 to 18 without exception. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote separately to the Prime Minister, stating that convening Parliament during active state elections reflects an intent to weaponise legislation for electoral benefit.

What Comes Next

Both bills — the constitutional amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and a separate Delimitation Bill — require passage as constitutional amendments. The plan to proceed using 2011 census data, rather than the upcoming 2027 figures, has become a central flashpoint in the political standoff. With Parliament set to convene on April 16, the government will need to demonstrate it has secured the two-thirds majority required to pass constitutional ame

Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi remains admitted at a Delhi hospital after being diagnosed with a stomach and urinary infection, prompting her son and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to stay overnight at her bedside.

According to officials, she was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital late Tuesday night. Doctors have been closely monitoring her condition, which is reported to be stable.

Rahul Gandhi’s Vigil

Rahul Gandhi has been personally attending to his mother during her hospital stay. In a video message shared on social media, he said he spent the night sleeping on a small sofa inside her hospital room.

He described his concern as “natural for any son” but added that the attentive care provided by a nurse from Kerala brought him reassurance during the night.

Praise for Nurse

Highlighting the role of healthcare workers, Rahul Gandhi spoke about the dedication of the Kerala nurse who checked on Sonia Gandhi every hour through the night.

He noted that her presence and compassion reflected the broader contribution of nurses from Kerala, not only in India but globally. “When the world sleeps, they continue working and comforting patients,” he said, calling it part of Kerala’s identity.

Political Schedule Impact

Sonia Gandhi’s hospitalisation has also affected Rahul Gandhi’s political engagements. He skipped an all-party meeting held at Parliament on Wednesday to remain at the hospital.

His planned visit to Kerala for election campaigning was cancelled. Instead, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge represented the party at the meeting, while Rahul addressed supporters virtually.

Kerala Campaign Remarks

Despite the disruption, Rahul Gandhi continued his outreach to voters in Kerala through a virtual address. He criticised both the BJP-led Centre and the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in the state over employment issues.

He alleged that promises of job creation had not been fulfilled and questioned the accountability of both governments. He also raised concerns over selective action by central agencies against opposition leaders.

Welfare Promises Outlined

During his address, Rahul Gandhi outlined several welfare measures promised by the Congress for Kerala. These included free bus travel for women, financial assistance for college-going girls, and an increase in welfare pensions.

He also mentioned plans for expanded health insurance coverage, interest-free loans for youth, and the creation of a dedicated department for senior citizens.

What Lies Ahead

Meanwhile, Sonia Gandhi’s health remains under observation, with doctors expected to decide on her discharge based on her recovery. Congress leaders have not indicated any immediate changes to her public schedule.

The development comes at a crucial time as political activity intensifies ahead of Assembly elections in multiple states, with results expected in early May.

Rahul Gandhi’s continued presence at the hospital underscores the personal nature of the situation even as political responsibilities remain pressing, making the Sonia Gandhi hospitalisation a closely watched development in both political and public spheres.

Sonia Gandhi Admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi

Sonia Gandhi hospital admission at the capital’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital has once again drawn attention, with sources confirming the senior Congress leader is undergoing treatment and her condition is being closely monitored.

Hospital Admission Confirmed  

Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital late Tuesday night. Hospital sources said she reached the facility after experiencing discomfort and is now under the care of a team of doctors.

Condition Being Monitored  

According to sources, her vital parameters are stable and being watched round the clock. No official bulletin has been released yet, but insiders indicated routine tests and supportive care are underway.

Second Admission This Year  

This marks the second time Sonia Gandhi has been hospitalised at the same facility in 2026. The latest development comes barely two months after her previous stay in January.

Respiratory Issues Recalled  

In January, she was admitted following respiratory discomfort. Hospital chairman Dr Ajay Swaroop had then stated that her bronchial asthma had been mildly exacerbated by Delhi’s cold weather and high pollution levels. She was kept under observation and given antibiotics along with other supportive medication.

Official Statement from January  

Dr Swaroop had described her condition at the time as “absolutely stable”. “She was experiencing respiratory discomfort, and upon medical examination, it was found that her bronchial asthma had been mildly exacerbated due to the combined effects of cold weather and pollution. As a precautionary measure, she was admitted for further observation and treatment,” he said in an official statement.

Treatment Details Awaited  

While specific reasons for the current admission have not been disclosed, sources indicated that doctors are following a similar cautious approach. The 79-year-old leader continues to receive round-the-clock attention at one of Delhi’s leading private hospitals.

Outlook Remains Cautious  

Congress workers and supporters across the country are keeping a close watch on updates. Party leaders have so far refrained from detailed comments, awaiting an official word from the hospital. In the latest news today from the national capital, this Sonia Gandhi hospital admission has emerged as a key India news update, highlighting the health challenges faced by senior public figures amid seasonal weather shifts and pollution concerns.

The development has triggered quiet concern within political circles, though no major disruption to party activities has been reported so far. Medical experts often note that patients with chronic respiratory conditions require prompt intervention in Delhi’s winter-to-spring transition period, when pollution spikes remain common.

As per reports, Sonia Gandhi is responding to treatment and her condition is being reviewed regularly. The hospital is expected to share more details once a full assessment is complete. For now, the focus remains on ensuring her full recovery while she receives the best possible care.

Lead: Gandhi Questions Delhi's Mute Stance

In a bold post on March 1, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi slammed the Indian government's silence on the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. She called the Sonia Gandhi Khamenei killing critique a wake-up call, labeling New Delhi's response "not neutrality, but abdication of responsibility." With West Asia boiling amid US-Israel strikes, this hits hard now as India balances ties with Iran, Israel, and Gulf nations.

The Assassination Shockwave

Iran confirmed Khamenei was killed in a targeted US-Israel attack on February 28—right amid diplomatic talks. Gandhi highlighted this as a UN Charter violation, breaching Article 2(4) that bans force against sovereignty without war declaration.

• No formal war declared.
  
  

• Happened during ongoing dialogues.
  
  

• Ignores global norms on heads of state.
  
  

Modi govt only voiced "deep concern" over Iran's UAE retaliation, skipping condemnation of the initial strike.

5 Key Points from Gandhi's Statement

Gandhi outlined sharp concerns:

1. Murder Without War: Undermines international law; India must speak up as world's largest democracy.
   
   

2. Modi Israel Visit: PM backed Netanyahu 48 hours prior, amid Gaza civilian deaths.
   
   

3. Global South Fallout: BRICS partners like Russia-China distance themselves; India's stance risks credibility.
   
   

4. Congress Condemns: Party mourns Iran, Shia community; calls strikes "dangerous."
   
   

5. India's Constitution: Article 51 urges dialogue, non-interference—principles now sidelined.
   
   

India-Iran Ties Under Spotlight

Gandhi recalled Iran's 1994 Kashmir support at UNHRC, Zahedan outpost vs. China-Pakistan corridor, and Vajpayee's 2001 Tehran warmth. With 10 million Indians in Gulf, neutrality protected evacuations in past crises. Growing India-Israel defense-agri-tech bonds are fine, but credibility demands principled calls for restraint.

She warned: Post-independence non-alignment was strategic autonomy, not passivity. Silence on Sonia Gandhi Khamenei killing row erodes trust from smaller nations.

Demand for Parliament Debate

Gandhi urged a session debate on the killing, govt silence, and West Asia instability's threat to India's interests. "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" means justice now, as rules-based order crumbles.

Why It Matters Today: With BRICS summits looming and oil prices spiking, India's India-Iran relations hang in balance. Gandhi's voice pushes for ethical foreign policy amid 2026 global tensions.