A complaint has emerged seeking the registration of an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for alleged disruption of the National Song, “Vande Mataram,” during an Independence Day function at the AICC headquarters on August 15, 2023.
This action follows the incident at the AICC headquarters in Indira Bhawan, where the complaint claims that Sonia Gandhi appeared to communicate disapproval of the song’s rendition. The issue stems from the application of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which aims to expand penal protections afforded to the National Anthem to include the National Song. Legal experts expect a thorough investigation into the claims made.
The complaint, filed on August 16 by advocates Kunal Vinayak and Shubh Sharma, demands that the police first assess the legal implications surrounding the proposed amendment before proceeding with an investigation. This includes understanding the commencement date of the bill in question.
According to the complainants, video evidence circulating online shows Sonia Gandhi gesturing during the event, which they interpret as an objection to the performance of “Vande Mataram.” In addition, the complaint cites another video in which Rahul Gandhi allegedly stated, “We are not singing Vande Mataram,” suggesting intentional disruption.
The complaint emphasizes the need for a prompt investigation into the conduct of both Congress leaders based on these claims, arguing that the nature and intent of their actions warrant examination. The complainants argue that if found guilty, individuals may face imprisonment of up to three years, or fines, or both under the proposed amended Section 3 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Bill, 2026.
The bill aims to protect the National Song from willful disruption and underscores the gravity of such actions, especially during national events. The complainants urge law enforcement to verify the bill’s legal status before addressing the allegations.
In addition, the complaint references a significant Supreme Court judgment from 2018 in the case of Shyam Narayan Chouksey v. Union of India, which clarified legal parameters surrounding disturbances during the singing of the National Anthem or National Song.
The main request of the complaint is to officially register an FIR under applicable laws after verifying the legal position, followed by a fair and timely investigation into the actions of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. The complainants also seek acknowledgment from the police regarding any actions taken in response to their complaint.
Furthermore, they reserve the right to present additional audiovisual evidence, witness statements, and further relevant information to the investigating agency as these become available, underscoring their commitment to a comprehensive examination of the case.
