On Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comment on Rabindranath Tagore composing “national songs” of two countries has stirred up a political controversy. Speaking at an event held at the international border outpost Petrapole in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, the Home Minister praised the renowned poet and writer, claiming that he had the privilege of writing the national songs of two countries.
Shah’s remark has sparked a debate among political parties, with the opposition accusing him of “distorting history” and “spreading misinformation.” The Home Minister’s statement has been deemed controversial, given that India and Bangladesh are two separate countries that did not exist during the time of Tagore.
Rabindranath Tagore is regarded as one of India’s greatest literary figures, known for his poetry, music, and other works. He is also the author of the Indian national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” which was composed in Bengali and first performed in 1911. However, it is unclear which other country’s national anthem Shah was referring to in his remarks.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has defended Shah’s comments, stating that he was merely paying tribute to Tagore’s contribution to literature and music. However, opposition parties have accused the Home Minister of attempting to rewrite history and misleading people.
The incident has further intensified political tensions in the state of West Bengal, which is currently embroiled in a heated political battle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress. The state is scheduled to hold assembly elections in eight phases from March 27 to April 29, and the BJP has been making aggressive efforts to make significant inroads in the state.
The controversy over Shah’s remarks comes amidst a flurry of political activity in West Bengal, with both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress holding rallies and public meetings in the state. While the BJP has been trying to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiments and make inroads into the state, the ruling Trinamool Congress has been fighting to retain its hold on power.
Amit Shah’s comments on Rabindranath Tagore composing “national songs” of two countries have sparked a political row, with the opposition accusing him of distorting history. The incident has further intensified political tensions in the state of West Bengal, which is currently embroiled in a heated political battle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress.