New Delhi, August 16, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Sunday accused Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi of disrespecting the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ during Independence Day celebrations and alleged that the Congress leader has an “urban Naxal” mindset.
Singh’s remarks came amid a controversy over the Congress’ Independence Day programme at its headquarters, where senior party leaders were seen interacting while ‘Vande Mataram’ was being played.
Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also did not attend the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort.
Speaking to IANS, Singh alleged that Gandhi’s conduct was driven by frustration or an “urban Naxalism” mindset. He also accused the Congress leader of working against India’s interests during his visits abroad and linked him to the agenda of billionaire philanthropist George Soros, alleging that it seeks to “divide India” and weaken the country.
Singh questioned how Gandhi could be expected to respect ‘Vande Mataram’ if, in his view, he did not respect the country or believe in the concept of Bharat Mata.
“Whenever Rahul Gandhi goes abroad and disrespects India, how can we expect such a person to respect ‘Vande Mataram’?” Singh said, adding that Gandhi only knows how to “stage a drama and disrespect people”.
The Union Minister also described Gandhi as a “political joker” in his capacity as Leader of Opposition.
Singh separately criticised Kharge over his allegation that the government had pushed India’s youth towards a “dead end”.
Responding to Kharge, Singh said, “Congress means Rahul Gandhi. Kharge is not Congress; keep that in mind.”
He further accused Gandhi of creating confusion among young people instead of providing them with direction and constructive guidance.
Singh alleged that Gandhi’s statements were aimed at creating unrest and claimed that he had expressed a desire to see India become like Bangladesh or Nepal.
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