BJP Leader Vikas Puttur Complains Against Sonia Gandhi Over Alleged Disrespect to ‘Vande Mataram’

BJP Leader Vikas Puttur Complains Against Sonia Gandhi Over Alleged Disrespect to ‘Vande Mataram’

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, August 16, 2026: BJP leader Vikas Puttur has lodged a complaint at the Urwa Police Station against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, alleging that the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ was disrespected during an Independence Day flag-hoisting programme at the Congress headquarters.

Puttur has sought registration of an FIR in the matter and said he would approach the High Court and file a private complaint if the police fail to take action.

The controversy followed the circulation of video footage from the Independence Day event, which purportedly showed senior Congress leaders speaking among themselves while ‘Vande Mataram’ was being recited. BJP leaders criticised the conduct, alleging that it amounted to disrespect to the national song.

The Congress, however, rejected the allegation and maintained that Sonia Gandhi’s actions had no connection with the national song. The party said she was only ensuring that the arrangements for the rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ were being carried out properly.

Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra also criticised the Congress leaders, alleging deliberate disrespect to the national song. He said the conduct of Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and others present at the event reflected an intention to show disrespect.