New Delhi, Aug. 18 -- Congress leader Pawan Khera on Tuesday defended his party's decision to sing only the initial two stanzas of Vande Mataram during the event in Goa, challenging critics to an open debate on the matter while accusing opponents of historical opposition to national symbols.

Speaking to ANI, Khera highlighted the party's internal consensus, targeting critics over past stances regarding national emblems and the Constitution.

"Why should anyone have any problem with us singing what was decided by our party? In the past, they had opposed Jana Gana Mana, Vande Mataram, Tiranga, and the Constitution. Let them come forward and debate on Vande Mataram," Khera said.

The Congress leader further hit back at the ruling party over...