Why Did the 73-Year-Old MLA Touch the Feet of a Leader 43 Years His Junior?

A video of BJP MLA Devendra Jain touching the feet of Mahāāryaman Scindia, sparking widespread discussion on social media, has raised questions about protocol, seniority, and political symbolism. At 73, Devendra Jain is significantly older than Mahāāryaman Scindia, who is 30, yet the gesture of seeking blessings has generated curiosity and debate.

While touching feet to receive blessings is a traditional mark of respect and not inherently controversial, critics suggest that Jain, given his age, could have been more mindful of the optics. One social media user commented that the act seemed aimed at pleasing a powerful political scion, highlighting the symbolic nature of the gesture in political contexts. Mahāāryaman Scindia is also the president of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association, adding a layer of public visibility to the event.

Jyotiraditya Scindia Also Younger

Interestingly, central minister Jyotiraditya Scindia is also younger than Devendra Jain. At 55, he is 18 years junior to Jain, yet his political stature and influence far surpass that of the senior MLA. Representing the Guna-Shivpuri constituency in Parliament, Jyotiraditya holds considerable sway both in the state and at the central level.

The incident underscores how traditional gestures of respect intersect with political hierarchies and public perception, often generating debate about seniority, symbolism, and strategic display of allegiance within party politics.