New Delhi: A special discussion on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram opened to sharp political exchanges on Monday, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the occasion to revisit historical disagreements over the national song.

Initiating the debate in the Lok Sabha at 12 noon, Modi said the song had served as “a driving force” behind India’s freedom struggle and continued to inspire generations.

He noted, "Vande Mataram is the force that drives us to achieve the dreams our freedom fighters envisioned. Vande Mataram energised our freedom movement. It is a matter of pride for all of us that we are witnessing 150 years of Vande Mataram."

The Prime Minister then launched a pointed criticism of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, accusing him of conceding to communal sensitiv

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