TABLEAU SELECTION

TABLEAU SELECTION

1. Context

The current disagreement between the Central government and non-BJP States over Republic Day parade tableaux has evolved into a political dispute, with the Opposition alleging bias on the part of the Modi government. The Centre refutes these claims, pointing to a misalignment with this year's theme and highlighting that similar controversies have arisen under previous administrations.

2. How are tableaux selected?

The selection process for Republic Day parade tableaux involves showcasing India's commemoration of the adoption of the Constitution and its transition to a democratic republic. The parade, led by the President in New Delhi, not only displays military strength but also celebrates cultural heritage through tableaux representing States, Union Territories, Ministries, and departments. The Ministry of Defence is responsible for overseeing parade coordination and preparations, including the careful selection and shortlisting of tableaux.

3. The selection process for Republic Day parade tableaux

The selection process for Republic Day parade tableaux is managed by the Ministry of Defence which adheres to a standardized procedure. The Ministry initiates the selection by inviting submissions months in advance, centered around a specified theme. These proposals undergo thorough expert evaluation, including a basic assessment and the presentation of three-dimensional models.

Various factors such as visual appeal, alignment with the theme, and the utilization of local resources contribute to the final selection of tableaux. While a State has the opportunity to present multiple proposals to the committee, only one is ultimately chosen for inclusion in the final parade. The Defence Ministry underscores the importance of time constraints, given the limited number of tableaux that can be accommodated.

However, the exclusion of proposals from Opposition-ruled States has sparked accusations of 'discrimination' from several State governments.

4. Rejection of Tableaux Proposals

This year, the rejection of tableau proposals from Punjab, Delhi, and West Bengal, all non-BJP ruled States, has sparked political tension. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab and Delhi, along with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, expressed dissatisfaction as their submissions failed to make the final cut.

Details of Rejected Proposals

Delhi's Submissions: Delhi submitted four sketches on the MyGov platform, focusing on showcasing its mohalla clinics and education services.
West Bengal's Proposals: West Bengal proposed two designs highlighting its cultural heritage and the Kanyashree scheme aimed at improving the status of girls.
Punjab's Designs: Punjab submitted seven designs covering three themes the history of the sacrifice of Mai Bhago, the State’s heritage, and the history of the freedom struggle and sacrifices made by freedom fighters.

Controversy ensued when Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the BJP government of "demeaning" the sacrifices made by Punjabis in the freedom struggle. A war of words erupted between the AAP and BJP, with State BJP chief Sunil Jakhar claiming the CM intended to use the tableau for personal promotion. The Centre dismissed these charges, stating that Punjab’s proposal didn’t align with the broader theme.

Similar situations have arisen in the past. In 2022, proposals from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal were excluded from the final list.

In 2021, Karnataka's tableau was initially rejected, but after public backlash, it was approved by the Centre. Under the UPA, proposals by the BJP-led Gujarat government faced rejection until the BJP party came to power at the Centre in 2014.

5. The Way Forward

The rejection of tableau proposals continues to be a source of political discord, raising questions about the criteria for selection and allegations of bias. This ongoing debate has broader implications for federalism and political motives, emphasizing the need for transparency and inclusivity in the Republic Day parade tableau selection process.

For Prelims: Republic day, Tableaus

For Mains:

1. Discuss the role of the Ministry of Defence in the selection of tableaux for the Republic Day parade. How does the selection process balance thematic coherence with representation of diverse states and cultures? (250 Words)

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Article

TABLEAU SELECTION

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