Himachal Pradesh News
‘Who Is Higher in the Constitution?’ Jagat Singh Negi Sparks Political Debate on Protocol
Himachal Pradesh Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi has launched a sharp political attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing the party of misleading the public and raising questions about constitutional protocol in India.
Himachal Pradesh Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi has launched a sharp political attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing the party of misleading the public and raising questions about constitutional protocol in India.
Speaking to reporters on Friday after chairing a meeting of the District Public Grievance Redressal Committee in Mandi, Negi said that before criticizing others on protocol, the BJP should clarify an important constitutional question: who holds the higher position in the country — the President or the Prime Minister?
Negi referred to an incident involving senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani during the Bharat Ratna conferment ceremony. According to the minister, photographs from the event show that when President Droupadi Murmu stood up during the ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remained seated.
“Before giving lessons on protocol, the BJP should first explain what the Constitution says and which position holds higher authority,” Negi said.
He further emphasized that the President of India occupies the highest constitutional office in the country. Negi also pointed out that President Droupadi Murmu comes from a tribal background and suggested that the BJP should respect the dignity of the office.
“The BJP has repeatedly misled the public on several issues. Instead of expecting an apology from me, it is the BJP that should apologize to the people of the country,” he added.
The minister also defended his earlier criticism of former Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla. Negi claimed that several cases related to ‘Nautod’ land allotment in tribal areas remained unresolved for nearly three years during Shukla’s tenure.
He stated that he had personally met the former Governor eight times to discuss the issue but no final decision was taken.
“Before questioning the administrative work culture of the state government while leaving office, the former Governor should have reflected on his own functioning,” Negi remarked.
The exchange of statements has further intensified the ongoing political debate in Himachal Pradesh, with leaders from both sides continuing to trade accusations over constitutional protocol and governance issues.
