Vande Mataram vs Jana Gana Mana: New Front Opens in TMC–BJP War Ahead of 2026 Polls

With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections on the horizon, a fresh political flashpoint has emerged between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) — this time over two national symbols, “Vande Mataram” and “Jana Gana Mana.”

The controversy began after BJP leaders accused the TMC of disrespecting “Vande Mataram”, claiming that the ruling party was deliberately avoiding the national song at official functions to cater to its “vote bank politics.”

TMC leaders swiftly hit back, accusing the BJP of trying to divide people using patriotic symbols and asserting that “Jana Gana Mana”, the national anthem, holds equal importance and reverence in Bengal.

Political analysts say the row is part of a broader symbolic battle for Bengali identity and nationalism, with both parties seeking to appeal to emotions of pride, culture, and patriotism ahead of the polls.

While the BJP is attempting to frame the debate as one of “respect for national heritage,” the TMC is portraying it as a fight against “communal polarization through symbolism.”

As the 2026 elections draw closer, this cultural and political tug-of-war between Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana is likely to intensify — setting the tone for yet another high-voltage Bengal campaign.