Recently, a similar incident occurred on the steps of the Makar Dwar in Parliament, a video of which is now rapidly going viral on social media. People are shocked by this and are also discussing whether this is “respect” for elders or a fear of power.
What is the full story?
During the Parliament session, a bustling atmosphere reigned, Prashant Padole, the Congress Lok Sabha MP from Maharashtra’s Bhandara-Gondia constituency, was standing with his fellow MPs on the steps of the Makar Dwar. Meanwhile, Union Cabinet Minister Nitin Gadkari was climbing the stairs of the Makar Dwar to enter the House. As Gadkari approached the stairs, Congress MP Prashant Padole, without delay, immediately stepped forward to touch Gadkari’s feet and seek his blessings.
Debate Sparks Social Media
This viral video has divided internet users into two groups. One group says that this is the beauty of Indian culture, where a young MP, even from the opposition party, is respecting a senior and experienced leader. Nitin Gadkari’s image, even among opposition parties, has been recognized as a “working minister” and a “development man,” so this behavior is being seen as pure respect.
At the same time, some on social media are sarcastically calling it fear or a future political setup. However, the warmth with which this meeting unfolded clearly points to etiquette and culture.
These steps of Parliament’s Makar Dwar have witnessed countless historic events, but this moment between Prashant Padole and Nitin Gadkari reflects the dignity of democracy that often gets lost in the din. Padole, a doctor-turned-MP, demonstrated that even if you carry your party’s flag on your shoulder as you ascend the steps of Parliament, respect for your elders is the hallmark of a true public representative.