The Parliament witnessed a mix of historic debate and legislative action as the winter session continued in full swing on 8 December 2025. In the Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a discussion to mark 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. He described it as a symbol of unity, resistance, and India’s freedom struggle, saying that pre-independence Congress leaders had omitted certain verses, which he alleged contributed to the partition of India. Modi called the song a “war cry” against colonial oppression, highlighting its role in inspiring millions and instilling patriotism across the country.
The opposition responded sharply. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra questioned the timing and focus of the debate, calling it a diversion from urgent issues affecting citizens today. Akhilesh Yadav and other opposition MPs cautioned against politicizing historical symbols, warning that debates over songs and heritage should not overshadow economic and social concerns. The discussion reflects the ongoing tension in Indian politics around national symbols, with supporters seeing it as a tribute to India’s legacy, while critics fear it could deepen ideological divides.
Meanwhile, in legislative business, Parliament cleared the Health and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, which imposes a special tax on pan masala manufacturing units. The cess will be levied in addition to the Goods & Services Tax (GST) and will be calculated based on the production capacity of machines and the weight of pan masala pouches. Factories with higher production will pay more.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the funds collected from this cess will be used to support public health initiatives and national security programs. The move comes as the earlier GST compensation cess on “sin goods” is being phased out, ensuring that revenue from these products remains stable.
This session highlights how Parliament balances historical and symbolic debates with practical policy decisions, demonstrating the wide-ranging scope of governance from honoring India’s heritage to managing economic priorities.
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