BJP Targets Congress MLA Imran Khedawala Over Sitting During Vande Mataram in Gujarat Assembly, MLA Responds

A fresh political controversy erupted in Gujarat on September 9 after Congress MLA Imran Khedawala sat down during the singing of Vande Mataram at the opening of the state Assembly’s monsoon session, drawing sharp criticism from the BJP.

The BJP accused the Jamalpur-Khadia MLA of disrespecting the national song and demanded an explanation from the Congress. Khedawala, however, said he had stood respectfully during the required portion of the song before taking his seat, citing his personal belief.

What Happened During the Assembly Session

The Gujarat Assembly’s monsoon session began with the customary rendition of Vande Mataram. According to the report, Khedawala initially stood when the song began but later sat down.

The incident quickly became a political flashpoint, with the BJP questioning whether the MLA’s conduct reflected his personal position or the Congress party’s stance.

The BJP said the incident amounted to an insult to the national song and demanded that Congress clarify its position.

Imran Khedawala Explains His Position

Responding to the controversy, Khedawala said he had stood respectfully during Vande Mataram and remained standing for the portions he considered necessary before sitting down.

He said the decision was based on his personal belief, adding that he was required by his faith to worship only God.

Khedawala did not describe his action as a rejection of the national song but defended it as an expression of his individual religious belief.

BJP Demands Congress Response

The BJP stepped up its attack following the incident and sought a clear response from the Congress leadership.

The party questioned whether sitting during Vande Mataram was Khedawala’s personal position or represented the Congress party’s broader stand. It also called for an apology, according to the report.

The controversy adds another political dimension to the opening of the Gujarat Assembly’s monsoon session, with the conduct of legislators during the national song now becoming a point of confrontation between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.