A political debate has intensified after Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge objected to not being invited to the President’s banquet for Russian President Vladimir Putin, while also questioning the absence of the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) from certain key engagements. Analysts, however, point out that Rahul Gandhi’s repeated absence from major national and constitutional events raises questions about the party’s moral footing in making such claims.
Political observers argue that while protocol concerns are legitimate, they carry greater weight when leaders consistently uphold the dignity and expectations associated with high constitutional positions. They note that Rahul Gandhi has missed multiple national ceremonies, including Republic Day and Independence Day events, which traditionally see cross-party participation as symbols of unity.
His absence has also been noted during significant occasions such as the inauguration of Kartavya Bhawan, the assumption of office by former President Ram Nath Kovind, and other key constitutional and judicial ceremonies, including the oath-taking of Chief Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Surya Kant. Critics say such repeated non-participation sends a message, intentional or otherwise, about the LoP’s approach to institutional norms.
Similarly, Rahul Gandhi did not attend events marking major milestones, such as the conferment of the Bharat Ratna on Pranab Mukherjee or the appointment of Heeralal Samariya as the first Dalit Chief Information Commissioner. These instances, taken together, have sparked a wider debate on expectations from the Leader of the Opposition and the importance of consistent participation in national events.
