Attempt to stop ‘Vande Mataram’ rendition midway shameful, says Punjab BJP chief

Chandigarh, Aug 17 (IANS) Punjab BJP President, Kewal Singh Dhillon, on Monday expressed concern over the alleged disrespect shown to the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ during the Independence Day programme at the Congress headquarters in Delhi.

He claimed when the entire nation was immersed in the spirit of patriotism on the sacred occasion of Independence Day, the alleged attempt by the Congress leadership to stop the full rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ midway at the Congress office was extremely shameful.

He claimed the Congress has repeatedly acted in a manner that disrespects the nation’s pride and national symbols. ‘Vande Mataram’ inspired millions of freedom fighters to make sacrifices during India’s struggle for Independence, and the people of the country will never tolerate such disrespectful conduct towards such a revered national song, he said.

Dhillon demanded that the Congress central leadership, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, tender an unconditional apology to the entire nation for this shameful act.

He said the Bharatiya Janata Party would always remain committed to protecting the honour of the nation and its national symbols, and will take the issue to every section of the people across the country.

Meanwhile, the BJP received a major boost as more than 250 leaders and members of the Garhwal community announced their decision to leave various political parties and join the BJP.

Those joining the party included office-bearers and members of Garhwal Sabhas associated with the Kharar, Mohali and Dera Bassi Assembly constituencies.

At the BJP office, Dhillon welcomed them into the party by draping BJP scarves around them. Speaking on the occasion, he said the BJP’s family “is growing day by day across Punjab”.

He said the people of Punjab now see the BJP as their only hope, as they have experienced the governments of the Aam Aadmi Party, the Congress and the Shiromani Akali Dal and have now made up their minds to form a BJP government in the state.

–IANS

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