Satish Mahana faces controversy over national anthem video

Uttar Pradesh Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana has faced intense criticism from opposition parties following a viral video appearing to show him leaving a venue during the national anthem. The incident occurred on August 22 during a provincial convention of the Uttar Pradesh Principals' Council at an inter college in Unnao.

In the footage, Mahana is seen stepping down from a saluting dais and walking toward his vehicle while the anthem is playing. Members of the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have accused him of disrespecting the national anthem and failing to follow constitutional protocol. In response, Congress leaders have demanded action against the Speaker.

Mahana has issued a clarification via social media, stating that the anthem was being played inside an auditorium and was not being played at the specific location where he was receiving a guard of honor. He asserted that the two events were separate and denied any intention of disrespecting the anthem or the constitution. Event organizers supported this claim, noting that the sound of the anthem was carrying from the indoor hall to the outdoor area where the guard of honor was taking place.