Debate in Parliament
No one has the least doubt about the pre-eminence of Vande Mataram as the national song. But creating unwanted controversy in its 150th year is out of line (Front page, December 9). We are missing the music by tuning to unwanted noise.
It is disconcerting that the government of the day is focusing on optics while ignoring fundamental issues that are crying for attention. The ruling dispensation seems to have the sole intent of amassing dividends in elections and is doing a disservice to the pride of place that the national song has in the country’s psyche.
Ayyasseri Raveendranath,
Aranmula, Kerala
The parliamentary debate so far reflects a selective reading of history, as records show that our leaders of the past consciously balanced national unity with cultural sensitivity. Recasting those decisions as “appeasement” ignores the realities of the time and risks polarising society today. Historical symbols should unite, not divide.
Respecting history requires nuance and honesty, not selective narratives that are shaped by contemporary political agendas.
Christene Grace Thomson,
Bengaluru
Yes, Vande Mataram is 150 years old and it is fine that we are celebrating its 150th anniversary on a grand scale. There ends the matter.
The Bharatiya Janata Party/National Democratic Alliance should not forget the fact that it has crossed over a decade in power. As rightly pointed out by the Opposition, there are a number of bread and butter issues that should be discussed in Parliament. One concurs with the Opposition that the NDA/BJP is indulging in diversionary politics. Religion alone cannot solve or resolve problems faced by the common people who outnumber the rich in India.
Govardhana Myneedu,
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
The debate served neither national interest nor could it evoke a feeling of patriotism. Such unproductive and divisive talk is only a distraction. Let us not harp on issues which do not have any bearing on present-day India.
V. Subramanian,
Chennai
Published – December 10, 2025 12:24 am IST
