Droupadi Murmu & Mallikarjun Kharge

Droupadi Murmu: Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, described 'Vande Mataram' as a source of inspiration and a symbol of emotional consciousness and unity, without directly engaging in the political dispute.

Mallikarjun Kharge: Mallikarjun Kharge, the current president of the India — Indian National Congress, defended the party's historical stance on 'Vande Mataram' and criticized the India — Bharatiya Janata Party and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh for not singing the national song.

Mallikarjun Kharge: Mallikarjun Kharge, as a Leader of the Opposition, was not invited to the banquet, which the India — Indian National Congress views as a breach of protocol.