Rahul Gandhi’s second last row seating at Independence day event sparks debate
Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address from the Red Fort was accompanied by an unusual focus on Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Seated in the second last row, Gandhi was positioned next to Olympic hockey forward Gurjant Singh. This seating arrangement, which deviated from traditional protocol, has generated considerable social media discussion.
Seating Protocol and Changes
Typically, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, whose rank is equivalent to that of a Cabinet Minister, is given a seat in the front row during Independence Day celebrations. However, this year’s front rows were allocated to Olympic medallists. Olympic gold medalists Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh, as well as members of the bronze-winning hockey team, including captain Harmanpreet Singh and PR Sreejesh, occupied these prime seats. According to sources from the Ministry of Defence, which organizes the Independence Day event, Rahul Gandhi was placed in the fifth row as the front rows were reserved for the athletes. The Ministry stated that Gandhi did not request any special arrangements.
Congress and BJP Reactions
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took this opportunity to criticize the BJP government’s handling of national unity and historical remembrance. Speaking at the AICC headquarters, Kharge accused the BJP of using 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' as a tool to spread divisive sentiment. He stated, «They mark Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas with the intention of spreading hatred.
The partition
