The controversy surrounding the Uttar Pradesh government's order making the singing of 'Vande Mataram' mandatory in all schools and madrasas continues to escalate. Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party, directed a sharp jibe at Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, stating that the CM should inquire with his associates about the last time they sang 'Vande Mataram.' Yadav suggested that the Chief Minister's allies, who are unregistered members of a Hindu organization, seem to have forgotten their past engagement with the symbol of national pride.

In the Vidhan Parishad, Yogi Adityanath expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting the decision to make 'Vande Mataram' compulsory, asserting that it embodies the country's dignity and spirit. He condemned the disrespect shown towards the national anthem, national leaders, and the tricolor, equating such acts to a violation of the constitution. The CM argued that certain members of the Samajwadi Party are belittling 'Vande Mataram,' which he believes is disrespectful not only to the national identity but also to the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

This clash underscores ongoing political tensions in Uttar Pradesh, where cultural symbols like 'Vande Mataram' are increasingly becoming battlegrounds for political discourse. The divide between the ruling party and opposition parties over such nationalistic symbols reflects broader ideological conflicts within Indian politics. As the debate rages on, it highlights the challenges of reconciling cultural heritage with contemporary political narratives.