Punjab's tableau for the 74th Republic Day parade in Delhi was rejected by the federal government. The state lost the potential to highlight its culture, traditions, and role in the freedom struggle after 2017.
On the theme of "India at 75: Freedom Struggle" and Punjab's participation as the nation's sword arm, the state government presented the federal government with three tableau ideas.
The 23 authorized tableaus for the parade, which will march down Delhi's Kartavya Path on January 26, comprise 17 from the states and Union territories as well as six from the federal government.
The BJP-led administration at the Center has come under fire from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab and the opposition Shiromani Akali Dal for leaving out Punjab's tableau from the Republic Day Parade.
Republic Day reminds us of the spirit of federalism. Rejection of Punjab's tableaux for R-day parade has laid bare the Centre's anti-federal & partisan attitude. This is a blunt dismissal by the Union Govt of Punjab's culture, traditions & countless contributions to the nation.
— Raghav Chadha (@raghav_chadha) January 23, 2023
Raghav Chadha, a Rajya Sabha representative for the AAP, said: “Republic Day reminds us of the spirit of federalism. Rejection of Punjab’s tableaux for the R-Day parade has laid bare the Centre’s anti-federal and partisan attitude. This is a blunt dismissal by the Centre of Punjab’s culture, traditions, and countless contributions to the nation.”
Shocked to learn GOI has rejected Punjab's tableau for 74th R-Day Parade. That means we aren't allowed to showcase our culture & contribution to freedom struggle! Urging GOI to review its decision,I also appeal to Pb CM @BhagwantMann to wake up & take up this forcefully with GOI.
— Sukhbir Singh Badal (@officeofssbadal) January 23, 2023
Sukhbir Badal, head of the Shiromani Akali Dal, expressed his shock at the Indian government's decision to reject Punjab's tableau for the 74th R-Day Parade. That means we aren’t allowed to showcase our culture and contribution to the freedom struggle! Urging the Government of India to review its decision, I also appeal to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to wake up and take up this forcefully with the Government of India.”