Anthem: Cong supports SC direction, raises doubt over its

Congress today came out in support of the Supreme Court's decision that National Anthem should be played before screening of a movie in a cinema hall, but raised questions on its implementation.
"The 130-year-old party has seen the bigger independence movement. Therefore, we have strongly supported all aspects of genuine nationalism. We support, in principle, everything that enhances the respect and dignity of this nation. Therefore, we support this in principle," Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said.
He said one should not forget that Congress, as a party, has been part of the independence movement that was achieved through it.
Raising concerns over implementation of the decision, Singhvi said it has to be seen very carefully.

"Because in its implementation, there should not be in any manner create disrespect for any of the national icons, flag or anthem. I am sure care will be taken by the Indian as a citizen to ensure that this will happen.
"I think the remembrance to the nation whether by saluting the flag or by National Anthem is a noble virtue," he said.

The Supreme Court today ordered cinema halls across the nation to mandatorily play the National Anthem before screening of a movie and the audience must stand and show respect.
The apex court said that "love and respect for the motherland is reflected when one shows respect to the National Anthem as well as to the National Flag".

"A time has come when citizens of the country must realise that they live in a nation and are duty-bound to show respect to the National Anthem which is the symbol of constitutional patriotism and inherent national quality," a SC bench said.