‘Unnecessary Public Debate’: BJP MP Walks Back Controversial Remark On National Anthem
Following widespread criticism, BJP MP and former Karnataka Assembly Speaker Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri clarified his stance on the national anthem. He emphasized that both Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram are “nationally respected songs” and stressed the importance of honouring the national anthem.
Full Retraction of Earlier Remarks
A day after causing a political controversy by claiming that Jana Gana Mana was composed to welcome the British, Kageri issued a full retraction.
“No, no. Never I will stand by this statement. Unnecessarily it has become a public debate. I don’t want to continue this. Our national anthem is always our national anthem. We have to give respect and honour to it.”
He added that his intention was never to spark controversy and that he wishes to withdraw completely from the debate.
Clarifying His Position
When pressed about formally retracting his statement, Kageri responded:
“No, no. Thing is, unnecessarily it has been made a controversy. I don’t want to debate on this more than this. Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana both are our nationally respected songs.”
He concluded by reaffirming:
“Jana Gana Mana is our national anthem, we must accept the truth and follow that.”
His remarks show a clear attempt to de-escalate the situation and restore respect for national symbols.
Author’s summary: BJP MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri withdrew his controversial claim about the national anthem, emphasizing respect for both Jana Gana Mana and Vande Mataram and calling the debate unnecessary.