Speaking at an election rally in Darbhanga, Bihar, Narendra Modi wondered whether those opposed to the chanting of ‘Vande Mataram’ should have their deposits forfeited. Mr Modi and the BJP are well aware that certain members of the minority community are opposed to Vande Mataram’s philosophical moorings. Mr Modi seems to be intent on conveying the message that resistance to chanting Vande Mataram, or, for that matter, whatever is preached by the BJP, is equivalent to treason. There is an additional incentive for Mr Modi to stoke the flames of aggressive nationalism. Altering the soul of the nation through a toxic nationalism is, allegedly, the BJP’s way of building India anew.

Source: The Telegraph April 30, 2019 03:22 UTC