Congress MP Criticizes Presidential Dinner Exclusion of Opposition Leaders
A recent presidential dinner honoring Russian President Vladimir Putin has sparked controversy as Congress MP Syed Nasir Hussain criticized the exclusion of opposition leaders. He urged President Droupadi Murmu to uphold bipartisan dialogue, emphasizing the importance of including all political voices in such significant events. Hussain's remarks highlight concerns over the erosion of democratic traditions in India, as Rahul Gandhi previously claimed that the government discourages foreign dignitaries from meeting with opposition figures. This situation raises questions about the integrity of India's political landscape and the implications for international relations.
| Dec 6, 2025, 17:01 IST
Concerns Raised Over Exclusion of Opposition at Presidential Dinner
In light of the uproar regarding the absence of opposition leaders at a presidential dinner honoring Russian President Vladimir Putin, Congress MP Syed Nasir Hussain urged the President's office to rise above partisan biases. He emphasized that as a constitutional head of state, President Droupadi Murmu should uphold the tradition of bipartisan dialogue. Hussain pointed out that the President has deviated from the democratic norm of inviting opposition leaders to official dinners held for foreign dignitaries.
Hussain expressed on social media that the longstanding democratic tradition was overlooked when opposition leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi were not invited to the state banquet for President Putin. As the host of this visit, the President is expected to transcend partisan preferences and ensure the continuation of bipartisan discussions.
He further stated that deliberately excluding the opposition from such dialogues undermines India's institutional credibility and turns foreign affairs into another battleground of partisanship. Previously, Rahul Gandhi stirred political controversy by claiming that the central government advises foreign dignitaries against meeting with opposition leaders. He argued that this breaks a long-standing tradition and reflects the government's insecurity.
Government sources clarified that during visits, the Ministry of External Affairs organizes meetings for visiting dignitaries with government officials and bodies. Arranging meetings outside of government is contingent upon the visiting delegation. Sources noted, "Since June 9, 2024, the following leaders have met with opposition leaders: Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina on June 10, 2024; Prime Minister of Vietnam Pham Minh Chinh on August 1, 2024; Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim on August 21, 2024; Prime Minister of Mauritius Navin Ramgoolam on September 16, 2025; and Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon on March 8, 2025."