West Bengal Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari said people living in the state must sing “Vande Mataram,” declaring that his government would not compromise on nationalism and patriotism. He made the remarks on Saturday while addressing a rally in his Bhabanipur constituency, according to the report published on August 23, 2026.

Adhikari alleged that the national flag had not been hoisted at Jadavpur University, that the state education department had not been allowed to enter, and that CCTV cameras had not been permitted on campus. He blamed what he called the “tukde-tukde gang” and “jihadi” forces for opposing the singing of “Vande Mataram” and celebrations of Republic Day and Independence Day at the university.

He said his government would establish nationalism inside and outside Jadavpur despite what he described as supportive media coverage for anti-national forces. Adhikari also said the university should reflect nationalism, Indian culture and “Sanatan” culture, citing the goal of realizing Shyama Prasad Mukherjee’s dream. He criticized left parties and claimed their candidates lost deposits in assembly elections held earlier this year.