Suresh Gopi dismisses BJP workers' protest over non-rendering of Vande Mataram at Vande Bharat flag-off

KOCHI: Union Minister Suresh Gopi has dismissed a protest by BJP workers over the non-rendering of Vande Mataram during the flag-off ceremony of the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express. He stated that there is a set protocol for singing the national song, which could not be followed during the inaugural event. Suresh Gopi said the matter was explained to the BJP workers, who understood the situation.

The Union Minister flagged off the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express, which has been upgraded to 16 coaches, on Tuesday. Following the ceremony, BJP workers staged a sit-in protest on the stage at Ernakulam South railway station, alleging that Vande Mataram was not sung during the event. The protesters demanded the suspension of the officials responsible. Suresh Gopi later intervened and spoke to the officials. The BJP workers ended their protest after the matter was discussed.