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Congress chief and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi and his new cabinet at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. This event, steeped in tradition and political symbolism, saw Kharge underscore the importance of his presence at the ceremony as part of his constitutional responsibilities.
Addressing the media upon his arrival, Kharge stated, “I am attending this event because of my constitutional duty. Being the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, it is my responsibility to attend such significant national events.” This remark highlights the fundamental principles of democratic engagement and respect for institutional protocols, regardless of political differences.
When queried about the possibility of congratulating Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi, Kharge offered a measured response, saying, “If I meet, I will see…” This statement, though seemingly non-committal, reflects the nuanced position of the Congress party in the current political landscape. While the Congress, under Kharge’s leadership, maintains a critical stance against the policies of the ruling government, Kharge’s presence at the ceremony signifies a commitment to uphold the decorum and traditions of India’s parliamentary democracy.
The attendance of Kharge at Modi’s oath-taking ceremony is particularly notable given the intense political rivalry between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This rivalry has often been characterised by sharp exchanges and deep ideological divides. However, Kharge’s decision to attend the ceremony illustrates the broader importance of maintaining a functional and respectful political discourse.
This gesture of attending the oath ceremony can be interpreted as a reaffirmation of the Congress party’s dedication to democratic values and respect for constitutional obligations. It sends a message that, despite political disagreements, there are moments when the dignity of the office and the sanctity of democratic traditions take precedence over partisan politics.