80th Independence Day: In a 1st, Vande Mataram to be sung from ramparts of Red Fort

NEW DELHI: Vande Mataram will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort for the first time during this year's Independence Day celebrations, which will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to a statement by the defence ministry.The occasion will also mark 150 years of Vande Mataram. PM Modi will unfurl the National Flag and address the nation from the historic monument in Delhi."Vande Mataram will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort for the first time," the statement said.This year's celebrations will focus on Yuva Shakti, highlighting the contribution of India's young population to the country's journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.Parliament recently passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, extending legal protection to Vande Mataram against acts of insult and placing the national song on a legal footing similar to that of the national anthem.The legislation triggered a brief political debate in the Lok Sabha, with the DMK opposing it and accusing the government of using the national song to "divide" the country.The BJP, however, defended the amendment, saying it would ensure that citizens can show respect to Vande Mataram without hindrance.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.