Rahul Gandhi’s Gamosa Gesture on Republic Day Sparks Nationwide Political Controversy
BJP alleges Congress leader disrespected North-East tradition at Rashtrapati Bhavan; Congress denies claims
New Delhi, Jan 27 : A brief moment at the President’s Republic Day ‘At Home’ reception has escalated into a heated political dispute over Rahul Gandhi and the traditional gamosa, also known as the Patka.
The BJP accused Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of failing to wear the gamosa, worn by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and foreign dignitaries. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described Gandhi’s act as “insensitive,” saying it reinforced perceptions of neglect towards the North-East.
Protocol and symbolism at the heart of the debate
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla alleged that Rahul Gandhi refused the President’s repeated requests to wear the gamosa, calling it an insult to the constitutional office.
The Congress dismissed the accusations, pointing to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other Union ministers who were also not wearing the gamosa. Congress MP Manickam Tagore said, “Images show several ministers without the Patka. Opposition leaders are being unfairly targeted.” Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi accused BJP’s IT cell of selective politics, calling for rising above such controversies.
Departure from protocol fuels criticism
Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge reportedly made only a brief appearance at the reception, skipping the queue to greet the President and leaving early. Sources said this was a departure from established protocol, which requires attendees to remain until the President exits.
Earlier in the day, Gandhi was seated in the fourth row at the Republic Day parade, behind several Union ministers a position the Congress argued did not reflect his constitutional role as Leader of the Opposition.
Cultural significance of the gamosa
The gamosa carries deep cultural importance in Assam and the North-East, symbolising identity, respect, and pride. It was formally recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022. BJP leaders argue that refusing to wear it at a national event is not merely a matter of attire but reflects on constitutional decorum and respect for regional traditions.
The dispute continues to dominate national headlines, blending issues of political symbolism, cultural respect, and parliamentary protocol.
