India, Dec. 8 -- The 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram triggered an intense political confrontation in Parliament on Tuesday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra delivering sharply contrasting interpretations of its historical journey and contemporary relevance.

During a spirited defence of her party, Priyanka Gandhi accused the government of deliberately spotlighting the issue ahead of the upcoming Bengal assembly election, claiming the ruling party was attempting to divert attention from pressing national concerns.

She argued that Vande Mataram "lives in every corner of the country," leaving no real reason to debate its place or acceptance.

She further accused the Prime Minister ...