Opposition criticizes Modi for not standing; experts cite protocol

In a ceremony held in New Delhi on March 31, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu awarded the Bharat Ratna to BJP stalwart L.K. Advani. Amidst the respect and celebrations, a controversy brewed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s conduct. The Opposition accused Modi of disrespecting the President by not standing during the award presentation. However, experts clarified that Modi was adhering to the established protocol of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

During the prestigious event, while President Murmu and the awardee, Advani, stood in honour, PM Modi remained seated. This action prompted criticism from the Opposition, particularly the Congress. They argued that Modi’s behaviour displayed a disregard not only for the President but also reflected poorly on his stance towards women and the Dalit community. Congress officials highlighted this as another instance in a pattern of disrespect towards President Murmu, pointing to previous occasions where they felt the President was sidelined.

Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD leader, echoed these sentiments during the INDIA rally. He criticized Modi’s lack of gesture to stand as a failure to honour the President during such a significant moment. However, countering these criticisms, experts familiar with Rashtrapati Bhavan’s protocols have stepped forward. They noted that during such ceremonies, it is customary for only the President and the awardee to stand, while other dignitaries, including the Vice-President and Prime Minister, remain seated. Ashok Malik, a former press secretary to President Ramnath Kovind, emphasized that this protocol is adhered to especially when ceremonies do not take place within Rashtrapati Bhavan itself.

This incident has sparked a significant debate, reflecting the nuances of protocol and the importance of gestures in political and ceremonial contexts. While the Opposition views Modi’s actions through a critical lens, protocol experts provide a perspective that frames his conduct as appropriate within the traditions of such high-profile events