The latest storm over Vande Mataram in Parliament has revived an old ideological battle in the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the Congress of having “fractured” the national song under pressure from the Muslim League. He accused Jawaharlal Nehru of “betraying” the song. As the government commemorates 150 years of the composition of the legendary song, the Opposition’s strong objections, counter-accusations and protests outside Parliament have brought the debate to the centre of national politics once again.

On the surface, it may look like a disagreement over a song. However, it has reopened deeper questions about the nature of India’s national identity and the historical consequences of allowing religious objections to dictate public symbols.

How the original objectio

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