The swearing-in of the UDF ministry led by V. D. Satheesan marked both a shift in Kerala’s government and a change in approach to the national song Vande Mataram among non-BJP parties. Congress members, communists and Muslim League representatives stood as the song was performed in full before the oath-taking. This was the first official event in Kerala where the complete song was played. Observers noted it as a historic moment, given past reluctance by some groups to accept the song despite its constitutional status alongside the national anthem. The full version was restored during the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav period. Kerala’s governor directed that Vande Mataram be played in full at the start and end of the ceremony. The order was followed, with leaders and the audience standing in silence. Those present included former chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, CPM secretary M. V. Govindan, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam, Indian Union Muslim League leader Palakkad Thangal, and Congress figures Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. Kerala has often been seen as a site of political experiments, and this event was described as a model of respect for national symbols beyond party lines. However, controversy arose in the Kerala Assembly on May 29 when a shortened version was played before the governor’s address, contrary to protocol. The governor stated that the full song should be performed whenever he attends and noted he had spoken to the speaker. BJP MLA V. Muraleedharan criticised the omission, calling it an insult to the governor and the national song.
