The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee on Tuesday raised concerns over what it described as a breach of constitutional protocol during the 77th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, an issue that has resonated strongly within political circles in Guwahati, the state’s political nerve centre.
Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi accused the Centre of showing disrespect to constitutional norms after Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge were seated in the third row during the Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path.
Assam Congress has alleged a violation of constitutional protocol after Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge were seated in the third row during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi said the issue has sparked debate in Guwahati over respect for the Leader of Opposition.
What Assam Congress Alleged
Speaking to reporters, Gogoi said the established protocol for the Leader of Opposition, a constitutionally recognised position, was not followed.
“This is not the first time such a thing has happened. The Leader of the Opposition holds a constitutional post, and ignoring this position raises serious questions. Only the Prime Minister can explain why this continues even when Parliament is called the temple of democracy,” Gogoi said.
The issue has since become a topic of discussion among Congress leaders and workers in Guwahati, where party offices and political forums have been actively debating the implications of the seating arrangement.
BJP–Congress Row Over ‘Patka’
The controversy also extended to criticism from the BJP over Rahul Gandhi not wearing a traditional Northeast ‘patka’ during the Republic Day ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Responding to the criticism, Gogoi said the BJP was selectively targeting Gandhi while ignoring similar instances involving its own leaders. “When Congress leaders pointed out that the same standards should apply to everyone, including Union ministers, the BJP became uncomfortable,” he said.
Northeast Angle Highlighted
Gogoi further said that people of the Northeast, including Assam, are well aware of who stands with them during crises. “Whenever there is a difficult situation in the Northeast, Rahul Gandhi is seen on the ground. The Prime Minister often is not,” he added.
In Guwahati, the remarks have drawn attention due to the city’s role as Assam’s political and media hub, where national political developments involving the Northeast are closely followed.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
As the headquarters of major political parties and the centre of state-level political discourse, Guwahati often becomes the focal point for reactions to national political events. Issues linked to constitutional protocol, representation of the Northeast, and treatment of opposition leaders at national ceremonies tend to influence political narratives within the city and beyond.
What Happens Next
The BJP has defended the arrangements, while the Congress has indicated it will continue to raise the issue. With political temperatures rising, Guwahati is expected to remain a key stage for further statements, debates, and organisational responses from both parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the Assam Congress’s allegation regarding Republic Day?
Assam Congress alleges that constitutional protocol was violated by seating the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, away from the front rows during the Republic Day parade.
Q2. Why has the issue drawn attention in Guwahati?
As Assam’s political hub, Guwahati closely follows national developments affecting the Northeast, especially issues linked to representation and constitutional norms.
