The presence of the Indian Army Chief at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony has sparked notable discussion among Pakistani social media users.
The event, which was well-attended by prominent Indian politicians, Bollywood celebrities, and figures from various sectors, also saw the Indian Army Chief in attendance, albeit seated noticeably further back compared to other dignitaries.
The seating arrangement has caught users’ attention on platforms such as Twitter, where a photograph from the ceremony has gone viral. The image captures the grand scale of the event and the wide array of attendees. Still, it has particularly highlighted the position of the military leader among the guests, which has led to lively discussions and comparisons.
Pakistani commentators are using this as an opportunity to analyze and compare the democratic and ceremonial practices of India with those of Pakistan, particularly focusing on the respect and protocol given to military officials at state functions. Senior journalist Amir Mateen contributed to the discourse by sharing the image on his social media, challenging his followers to locate the Indian Army Chief and the Chief of Defence Staff in the crowded scene.
The discussion underscores the nuanced perceptions and reactions across borders regarding the roles and representations of military leadership in national events, reflecting broader regional dynamics and sentiments.