Tripura Congress chief slams BJP over Vande Mataram celebration amid protests

Guwahati: Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Asish Kumar Saha on Sunday, November 9, alleged that the ruling BJP has launched the 150-year celebration of Vande Mataram as a political strategy to divert public attention from growing protests against the party.

He made the remarks during an organizational meeting at the Pradesh Congress Bhawan.

Saha accused the BJP of following the ideologies of the RSS and Hindu Mahasabha. He said the RSS had no role in India’s freedom struggle and instead aided the British, disrespecting the sacrifices of freedom fighters.

“By insulting leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi, they are undermining the spirit of the independence movement. The literary contribution of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay inspired the freedom struggle, and our party has always respected this legacy through various programs,” he said.

The PCC chief also criticized the BJP government for rising unemployment, economic decline, and public distress since coming to power.

He claimed that the party manipulated voter lists with the help of the Election Commission to win elections and is now using the 150-year Vande Mataram celebration to create division and distract from ongoing protests.

“Everyone already values Vande Mataram, but the BJP is turning it into a tool for political division. People are protesting against electoral manipulation and to safeguard democratic and constitutional rights. This celebration is being used to divert attention from these issues, and we strongly condemn it,” Saha added.

Regarding the meeting, Saha said it was a routine organizational session with party leaders.

He noted that the party aims to complete the formation of its organizational structure, particularly booth committees, by December 31, expressing confidence that leaders will work sincerely to strengthen the party at the grassroots level.