Srinagar, Dec. 8 -- As the Lok Sabha began a special debate on Vande Mataram, former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti criticised the BJP for "indulging in empty symbolism".
Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the debate on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram in Lok Sabha on Monday.
Mehbooba questioned how such "political theatre" would address rising prices, unemployment and other pressing concerns affecting millions of Indians.
In a post on X, Mehbooba said Parliament is busy sparring over a 150-year-old Vande Mataram even as IndiGo passengers are left stranded and desperate for answers.
"Instead of confronting the crises hurting people, BJP seems intent on indulging in empty symbol...