Controversy Erupts Over Rahul Gandhi’s Seating at Independence Day Event

A controversy has emerged over the seating arrangements at this year’s Independence Day celebration at the Red Fort, sparking debate about the treatment of opposition leaders. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, was placed in the fifth row, far from the front where senior ministers usually sit. This decision has been criticized by the Congress party and others as a slight to Gandhi and the people he represents.

Gandhi, who holds the status of a Cabinet minister, was situated behind Olympians and other prominent guests. The Red Fort’s officials explained that some of the prime seats were allocated to Olympic medalists who were honored at the event. They did not clarify which other VIPs were moved to the back.

The Congress party reacted strongly, arguing that Gandhi’s placement in the back row was an insult. Congress general secretary KC Venugopal expressed discontent on X (formerly Twitter), saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision showed disrespect. He highlighted that while Olympians deserved recognition, it was unusual and inappropriate to place the LoP so far from the front.

Venugopal pointed out that while Gandhi was seated behind medal winners like shooter Manu Bhaker and hockey players, other senior ministers, including Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Nirmala Sitharaman, and S. Jaishankar, occupied the prime front row seats. The Congress also noted that Rajya Sabha LoP Mallikarjun Kharge was assigned a back row seat but did not attend the ceremony.

Critics argue that such treatment of the LoP is unprecedented. Historically, the LoP enjoys the same status as a Cabinet minister and is usually seated in a prominent position. This year’s seating arrangement, they say, was not only a slight to Gandhi but also an affront to the role he plays in representing the people of India.