The recent protest by BJP Yuva Morcha workers outside Dabolim Airport during Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s arrival, raising slogans against him and Sonia Gandhi over their alleged conduct during the rendition of Vande Mataram, appears to be another attempt to manufacture a political controversy. It is rather amusing that BJP leaders seem to believe they have a monopoly over Vande Mataram and can decide how others should sing or respond to it. Before lecturing others on patriotism, perhaps these protesters should ask their own elected representatives how many can recite the complete composition of Vande Mataram by heart. Instead of wasting time on chest-thumping slogans, political workers should focus on issues that genuinely affect citizens. Whether someone sings the complete Vande Mataram or not does not automatically make that person a more patriotic citizen. True patriotism is also about treating fellow citizens with equality, dignity, tolerance and respect. Political parties would do well to stop exploiting national symbols for petty political gains and instead demonstrate patriotism through their actions.
JERRY FERNANDES, Saligao
