Gandhi challenged: Back women's reservation, sing Vande Mataram, Irani demands
On August 23, 2026, Smriti Irani, BJP general secretary, asked Rahul Gandhi to validate his support for women by backing the implementation of 33% reservation for women in legislatures and organizing a full rendition of Vande Mataram at Congress headquarters. Interacting with students on August 22, Mr. Gandhi criticized patriarchy and Manusmriti mindset, claiming 80% of women face harassment. Ms. Irani urged Mr. Gandhi to honor his words by supporting the bill passed for women's reservation and singing all verses of Vande Mataram, including those invoking Goddess Durga.
11 AUG 2026
— The Hindu
President Murmu signed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, into law, criminalizing disruption or prevention of singing Vande Mataram.
21 AUG 2026
— NDTV
The NDA government's amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act sparked controversy over the song Vande Mataram and its performance.
23 AUG 2026
· THIS STORY — The Hindu
BJP general secretary Smriti Irani challenged Rahul Gandhi to support women's reservation and a full rendition of Vande Mataram by urging him to honor his words.
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