The Lok Sabha will hold a special discussion on December 8 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the debate at noon, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will conclude it. The BJP-led government has been allocated three hours for its contributions in a total discussion time of ten hours. The Rajya Sabha will also participate in this discussion on December 9, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah opening the session.

This parliamentary debate comes amid ongoing political tensions regarding the song's historical context and its religious imagery. Vande Mataram, originally composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875, has been a symbol of India's freedom struggle. It was first published in the literary journal Bangadarshan and later included in Chatterjee's novel Anandamath.

The commemoration of Vande Mataram is significant, as it has become a focal point for political messaging and discussions about national identity. Prime Minister Modi recently accused the Congress party of removing important stanzas from the song during its 1937 session, claiming this decision contributed to national division. He stated, "This decision sowed the seeds of partition," arguing that it fragmented the song's original spirit.

In response, the Congress party defended its historical decision, citing the advice of Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders who believed that the first two stanzas were more widely recognized and inclusive. They argued that the remaining stanzas contained religious imagery that could alienate certain communities.

The upcoming discussions will also feature contributions from eight Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The Winter session of Parliament began on December 1 and will continue until December 19. The anniversary of Vande Mataram was officially observed on November 7, marking its deep-rooted significance in India's cultural and political landscape. PM Modi described the song as a "mantra" that embodies devotion to the motherland, stating it connects people to the nation’s history and inspires confidence for the future.