The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday sharply criticized the Samajwadi Party (SP) and other opposition leaders for demanding the removal of the “Sengol” from Parliament, arguing that the traditional sceptre represents monarchy. The controversy erupted after Samajwadi MP RK Chaudhary called for the “Sengol” to be removed from the Lok Sabha, describing it as an anachronistic symbol of monarchy in a democratic India.
The “Sengol,” derived from the Tamil word “semmai” meaning righteousness, is a significant historical symbol of India’s Independence. It signifies the transfer of power from the British to Indians and features a sacred bull of Lord Shiva, Nandi, atop its five-foot length. Chaudhary suggested that the “Sengol” should be replaced by a replica of the Constitution, questioning its presence next to the Speaker’s chair. He submitted a letter to pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab, expressing his concerns. “Today, I took an oath in this honorable chamber that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established,” Chaudhary stated.
BJP Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla responded by accusing the opposition of disrespecting Indian culture, particularly Tamil culture. “Tell me that the party which is a symbol of nepotism is again hell-bent on insulting such an integral part of Indian culture. If it was a symbol of monarchy, then why did the first Prime Minister Nehru accept it?” Poonawalla questioned.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan echoed similar sentiments, questioning the motives behind the opposition’s stance. “It is beyond my understanding whether the people of your area chose you for development work or to engage in such controversial politics. When these symbols are given due respect by our Prime Minister, why are you offended?” Paswan remarked.
However, Congress MP Manickam Tagore and DMK’s TKS Elangovan supported the SP’s suggestion. “The government has always been playing with this kind of thing, by placing Sengol. This is a good suggestion from the Samajwadi Party colleague,” Tagore said. Elangovan added, “We agree with SP that Sengol should be removed. Sengol is a symbol of monarchy, and the Constitution is a symbol of democracy.”
In a ceremonial event on Thursday, President Droupadi Murmu arrived in the Lok Sabha with the “Sengol” to address the joint sitting of Parliament and unveil the newly-elected government’s priorities. She was escorted by horse-mounted presidential bodyguards in a procession from Rashtrapati Bhawan to Parliament.
According to Article 87 of the Constitution, the President is required to address a joint session of Parliament at the beginning of the session after each Lok Sabha election. The President also addresses a joint sitting of both Houses in the first session of Parliament every year, outlining the government’s programs and policies.
