The 77th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, while showcasing India's military might and cultural diversity, descended into a fierce political confrontation between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress. The conflict centered on two contentious issues: the refusal of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to wear a traditional Assamese scarf and the seating arrangement of opposition leaders during the parade.
Assam Gamosa Controversy Sparks Heated Exchange
At a reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, guests were presented with a gamosa, a traditional Assamese scarf symbolizing honor and respect. While most dignitaries, including foreign guests, wore the scarf, Rahul Gandhi reportedly declined. This action triggered immediate backlash from BJP leaders, who framed it as a deliberate insult to the northeastern region of India.
BJP's Accusations of Cultural Disrespect
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma led the charge, calling Gandhi's behavior deeply insensitive and indicative of a disregard for the region's rich cultural heritage. In a post on social media platform X, Sarma stated, "From the President and the Prime Minister to foreign dignitaries, everyone wore the Patka with respect and pride. Mr Gandhi alone stood apart, reinforcing a perception of disregard towards the North East." He demanded an unconditional apology from the Congress leader to the people of the northeast.
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla echoed these sentiments, labeling Gandhi's actions as shameful and accusing him of disrespecting both the President and the northeastern states. Poonawalla emphasized that this incident explains why Congress has "lost the trust of the region and much of the country."
Congress Counterattack with Defence Minister Reference
The Congress party swiftly retaliated, dismissing the allegations as a politically motivated distraction. Party spokesperson Pawan Khera posted a photograph of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on X, highlighting that he too was not wearing the Assamese scarf. Khera questioned, "Hey @himantabiswa, will you seek an apology from @rajnathsingh ji too? Or your entire strategy to fight anti-incumbency is to pick up such non issues?"
Congress MP Manickam Tagore joined the fray, criticizing the BJP for selective targeting and accusing them of dragging the President into cheap politics. Tagore pointed out the inconsistency in the BJP's criticism, asking why Singh was not being held to the same standard.
Seating Arrangement Dispute Adds Fuel to Fire
Simultaneously, another controversy erupted over the seating protocol at the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path. Congress leaders alleged that their party president, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi were placed in the third row, which they deemed an intentional insult and a "protocol mess-up." Sharing images of the seating arrangement, Congress members questioned the propriety of relegating opposition leaders to such positions.
BJP's Defense of Protocol and Accusations of Entitlement
In response, BJP spokespersons defended the seating plan, stating it adhered strictly to the Warrant of Precedence, a constitutional framework that determines official rankings. Shehzad Poonawalla accused the Congress of prioritizing "entitlement and ego" over constitutional norms, suggesting they believe in "parivar tantra (family system)" above "sanvidhan tantra (constitutional system)."
Another BJP spokesperson, Pradeep Bhandari, condemned the Congress for politicizing the event, calling Rahul Gandhi an insincere politician who consistently chooses politics over national interest. Bhandari highlighted Gandhi's absence from other significant national events, such as the Vice President's oath ceremony and Independence Day programs, to question his commitment.
Broader Political Implications
This public spat underscores the heightened political tensions in India, especially with upcoming elections in states like Assam. The exchange reflects a broader pattern of using cultural symbols and protocol issues as tools for political point-scoring. Both parties have leveraged social media to amplify their narratives, turning what is traditionally a day of national unity into a platform for partisan conflict.
The controversy also raises questions about the intersection of regional identity and national politics. The gamosa, a symbol of Assamese pride, became a focal point in a debate that extends beyond mere etiquette to issues of respect, representation, and political strategy. As accusations of "insult vs insult" fly, the incident highlights the challenges of maintaining decorum in a highly polarized political environment.
Ultimately, the 77th Republic Day will be remembered not only for its grand parade and celebrations but also for this intense political slugfest that diverted attention from the day's core themes of unity and patriotism. The ongoing rivalry between the BJP and Congress suggests that such conflicts may become more frequent as election seasons approach, with both sides eager to capitalize on any perceived misstep.
