Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 7: The Winter Session of Parliament is set to witness a landmark debate as Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate discussions in Lok Sabha on the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ on Monday. The government has earmarked ten hours for the special debate, highlighting the historical and cultural significance of the iconic patriotic composition by Bankimchandra Chatterjee.

Following the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also address the House. On behalf of the opposition, Congress Deputy Leader Gaurav Gogoi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are expected to participate in the discussion.

The Centre has emphasised that ‘Vande Mataram’ served as a powerful inspiration during India’s freedom struggle. Prime Minister Modi, who launched year-long celebrations on November 7, had earlier criticised the Congress, alleging that the party removed key stanzas of the song in 1937, sowing seeds of division.

In Rajya Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah will lead the discussion on the subject on December 9, followed by Health Minister J.P. Nadda.

Meanwhile, both Houses are also set to discuss election reforms later this week — a subject that includes the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The issue had triggered protest from the opposition during the opening days of the Winter Session, leading to repeated adjournments. The Monsoon Session too had faced disruptions over similar demands.

Lok Sabha will take up the debate on electoral reforms on Tuesday and Wednesday, while Rajya Sabha will hold discussions on Wednesday and Thursday.

With the government pushing for deeper civic engagement and the opposition demanding greater transparency in electoral processes, the week ahead is likely to set the tone for an intense and politically charged session.