Kerala โMinister Orders Probe After Students Perform Song Linked to RSS โat Train Launch
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – november 9, 2025 – Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankumar hasโข directed an investigation into the performance of a song with ties to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) by students during the โinauguration of a Vande Bharat Express train in Kerala. The incident โhas ignited political controversy, with the minister alleging an attempt to promote “aggressive Hindutva” ideology.
The performance occurred duringโข the launch event, prompting criticism that the Southernโ Railway inappropriately presented theโค song, known as “Gana geetham,” as a โpatriotic piece. Minister Sivankumar stated the selection not only exposed the Railways to ridicule but also disrespectedโ India’s independence movement. He further asserted that theโ Railways, historically a symbol of secular nationalism during the freedom struggle, appears to โbe aligning โwith the RSS’s communal agenda. He urged public recognition and opposition toโ such perceived ideologicalโข intrusions.
Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader george Kurianโฃ defended the performance, characterizing it as โขa “simple group song.” Kurian highlighted the lyrics’ references to natural elements like rivers, trees, and orchards, alongside offerings toโข the nation, questioning where communalism could be found within the composition. He added the song also honors ancient figures including Bhagat โฃSingh, Rani of Jhansi, โคSree Narayana Guru, and Swami Ramdas, and containsโ no explicit religious references.
Actor-politician and Unionโ Minister Suresh Gopi also downplayedโข the โขcontroversy,stating the students performed with sincerity as partโ of a celebratory event.Gopi dismissed concerns, asserting the song does not promote terrorism and therefore does not warrant an overreaction.
The Vande Bharat Express, โคa high-speed train service, represents โคa key component of India’s expanding railway infrastructure. The incident underscores ongoing debates surrounding the intersection of culturalโ expression,political ideology,and national symbols โคwithin India’s public sphere. The Education โคMinister’s probe aims to determine the circumstances surrounding the song selectionโ and assess any potential violations of educational guidelines.