Guwahati buzzed with political tension on Tuesday as Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi sharply criticized the central government for what he called a blatant disregard for protocol during the Republic Day parade. Speaking to reporters, Gogoi highlighted the seating arrangement for key opposition leaders, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha’s Rahul Gandhi, who were reportedly placed in the third row at the Kartavya Path event on January 26.
“This is a direct violation of the protocol associated with the Leader of Opposition position,” Gogoi asserted, underscoring the constitutional significance of the role. He drew a stark contrast with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s frequent references to Parliament as the ‘temple of democracy,’ questioning how such treatment of opposition figures aligns with democratic values.
Gogoi demanded clarity from the Prime Minister on why a national event of such prestige would undermine a constitutional office. He pointed out that similar lapses have occurred repeatedly, eroding the spirit of fair play in public functions.
The controversy didn’t end there. The BJP fired back, accusing Rahul Gandhi of insulting Northeast India by not wearing the traditional Assamese ‘patka’ at the Republic Day ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, speaking at a state event in Dibrugarh’s Digboi, expressed strong dismay, labeling it as Gandhi’s ongoing insensitivity to regional culture and sentiments.
“I’m not surprised by this,” Sarma said, noting past instances of similar behavior. “Rahul Gandhi has repeatedly disrespected Assam and the Northeast. I won’t waste my time discussing him.”
Congress leaders dismissed these claims as politically motivated, arguing that cultural symbols are being weaponized for electoral gains. Gaurav Gogoi urged restraint, emphasizing that Northeast people judge leaders by their actions in times of crisis, not symbolic gestures. He praised Rahul Gandhi’s consistent engagement with the region during tough times, while accusing the Prime Minister of frequent absences when Northeast faced challenges.
This exchange underscores deepening political divides ahead of key elections, with both sides leveraging national celebrations to rally their bases. As India reflects on its republican ideals, questions about protocol, respect, and regional sensitivities linger, promising more heated debates in the coming months.