A complaint filed with the Delhi Police requests the registration of an FIR against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi over their purported disruption during the rendition of the national song “Vande Mataram” at an Independence Day function at AICC headquarters on August 15.
Advocates Kunal Vinayak and Shubh Sharma filed the complaint on August 16, seeking a thorough investigation into the alleged conduct of the two leaders. The complaint calls for the police to clarify the applicability and legal status of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and conduct a fair, impartial, and time-bound inquiry.
The legal representatives allege that Sonia Gandhi displayed gestures that indicated disapproval of the continuance of “Vande Mataram” during the event. They cite video footage and media reports corroborating their claims.
In addition, the complaint highlights instances in which Rahul Gandhi allegedly remarked, “We are not singing Vande Mataram” during the rendition of the national song.
The complaint argues that the actions of Sonia and Rahul Gandhi necessitate a detailed investigation to ascertain their intentions and the context of their behavior at the function.
Invoking the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, the complainants emphasize that the amendment aims to extend legal protection to both the national anthem and the national song. The proposed legislation stipulates penalties including imprisonment for up to three years, fines, or both for those who intentionally disrupt the performance of the national anthem or song.
Importantly, the complaint instructs the police to confirm the legal status of the proposed amendment at the time of the incident and when the complaint was filed. This verification is essential for assessing the allegations against the Congress leaders.
Additionally, the complaint references a Supreme Court ruling from 2018 (Shyam Narayan Chouksey v. Union of India) which articulates the existing laws regarding the willful interruption of national anthem performances.
The main request within the complaint seeks the registration of an FIR under relevant laws after thorough examination. It also calls for a conscientious investigation into the alleged actions of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi and asserts that authorities must act against anyone found culpable.
The advocates have reserved the right to provide more audiovisual evidence and witness accounts to the investigative body as more information becomes accessible.
