204 Retired Officials Raise Concerns Over Rahul Gandhi’s Conduct in Parliament

New Delhi — A group of over 200 prominent senior citizens, including retired bureaucrats, army officers, ambassadors, and legal professionals, have expressed serious concerns about the conduct of Rahul Gandhi in Parliament. They argue that his behaviour undermines the dignity and effectiveness of the country’s highest democratic institution.

The group, comprising 204 signatories—among them 116 retired army personnel, 84 former bureaucrats, and a handful of ambassadors and advocates—released an open letter addressed to the citizens of India. The letter was made public by former Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police S.P. Vaid.

Referring to events on March 12, the signatories described the developments as “deeply concerning.” They emphasized that Parliament is the central platform for democratic debate and decision-making, often regarded as the “temple of democracy.” However, they ???? that Rahul Gandhi has repeatedly lowered the standard of public discourse through what they describe as theatrical behaviour, both inside and outside the House.

According to the letter, such actions reflect a pattern where Parliament is treated more as a stage for provocation than as a forum for meaningful deliberation. The group warned that this approach not only wastes valuable public time but also disrupts parliamentary functioning and damages the country’s democratic image.

They further noted that such conduct is particularly troubling given Rahul Gandhi’s position as the Leader of Opposition, a role that carries significant responsibility. Members of Parliament, they stressed, must remain mindful that their actions hold both symbolic and institutional importance.

The signatories expressed disappointment, stating that as individuals who have served the nation for decades, they are pained to witness behaviour that could weaken democratic institutions. They called on all citizens to speak out against actions that diminish the dignity of Parliament.

The letter also urged Rahul Gandhi to apologise to the nation and reflect on his conduct. It highlighted that maintaining the dignity of Parliament is not merely a tradition but a fundamental part of India’s constitutional framework.

A specific incident cited in the letter involved Rahul Gandhi and other MPs sitting on the steps of Parliament while having tea and snacks. The signatories described this as inappropriate and inconsistent with the expected decorum of elected representatives. They argued that all areas within the Parliament complex—including stairs, corridors, and lobbies—are integral to the institution and must be treated with respect.

Concluding their message, the group reiterated that upholding the sanctity, authority, and decorum of Parliament is essential to preserving the strength and credibility of India’s democracy.

With inputs from IANS