The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lodged a formal complaint with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, against Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi. The complaint centers on allegations that Ms. Gandhi exited the Parliament chamber while the national song 'Vande Mataram' was being played following the adjournment of the Winter Session. This action has been characterized by the BJP as disrespectful and has intensified an ongoing political debate surrounding national symbols and parliamentary decorum.

The incident occurred on the concluding day of the Winter Session of Parliament. The complaint, filed by BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla, seeks an investigation into Ms. Gandhi's conduct and demands appropriate action from the Speaker. The BJP asserts that such an act constitutes an insult to the national song and potentially violates the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

Key details surrounding the incident and the complaint include:

  • Date of Incident: Wednesday, November 22, 2023, following the adjournment of the Winter Session of Parliament.
  • Allegation: Sonia Gandhi reportedly walked out of the Lok Sabha chamber as 'Vande Mataram' was being played.
  • Complainant: BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla.
  • Recipient of Complaint: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
  • Basis of Complaint: Alleged disrespect to the national song and potential violation of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
  • Context: The incident transpired amidst heightened political tensions, notably following the suspension of 146 opposition Members of Parliament for disrupting proceedings during the session.

Mr. Poonawalla stated that Ms. Gandhi's alleged action was not an isolated incident, referencing previous instances of opposition leaders allegedly showing disrespect towards national symbols. He emphasized that 'Vande Mataram' holds significant national importance and that any act perceived as disrespectful warrants parliamentary scrutiny. Prior to the incident, Ms. Gandhi had reportedly engaged in a courtesy meeting with Speaker Om Birla.

The complaint underscores the prevailing political friction within Parliament, particularly concerning the conduct of opposition parties in light of the recent mass suspensions. The BJP's move to formally address the issue with the Lok Sabha Speaker signifies an escalation of the 'Vande Mataram' debate, transforming it into a formal parliamentary matter. The party's leadership has consistently advocated for adherence to established protocols and respect for national symbols by all public representatives.

The complaint now rests with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who will be tasked with reviewing the allegations and determining any subsequent course of action. This development is expected to fuel further political discourse and debate regarding parliamentary ethics and the interpretation of respect for national symbols in India's legislative body.