No Protocol Breach During R-Day Ceremony, MoD Responds to Kharge’s Seating Concerns

The Congress party has accused the central government of insulting opposition leaders by seating Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge in the back rows during the Republic Day parade. The allegations claim the seating arrangement violated protocol and reflected government bias, but the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has clarified that no such breach occurred.

MoD Clarifies Seating Was Priority-Based
According to ministry sources, the seating arrangement on Kartavya Path was based on protocol and priority, and no rules were violated. Special arrangements, including a personal assistant and nearby parking, were provided for Kharge, taking into account his health and mobility needs.

Kharge Alleges Disrespect to Opposition
Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, said that both he and Rahul Gandhi were seated in the third row with state-level ministers, which he described as disrespectful to senior leaders and the opposition. He emphasized that, as one of the most senior parliamentarians, such treatment was unacceptable. Kharge also criticized the BJP for exaggerating the issue for political gain, citing upcoming elections in Assam and Manipur.

Congress Leaders Criticize Government’s Conduct
Congress leaders, including Randeep Surjewala and Vivek Tankha, took to social media to condemn the seating arrangement. Surjewala shared a photo of Rahul Gandhi and Kharge in the third row, questioning whether such behavior aligns with standards of protocol, tradition, and courtesy, and said it reflects the government’s desperation and inferior mindset. Tankha described it as a blatant violation of protocol and decorum, adding that such actions undermine democracy and the respectful functioning of parliamentary norms.

While differences are natural in a democracy, Congress leaders argue that the treatment of opposition leaders during a national ceremony like Republic Day was disrespectful and avoidable, prompting nationwide debate on protocol and parliamentary etiquette.