Every Republic Day is preceded by a row over the exclusion of some states’ tableaux. The feeling that some cultures and people are unrepresented creates bitterness. Once intended to foster public awareness of Indian diversity, the tableaux are anachronistic now. Either include all, or just do away with the spectacle.
Bhagwant Mann as Punjab CM face will allow AAP to cultivate a regional power centre
AAP declaring Bhagwant Mann as its CM face in Punjab is a smart move. Picking a Punjabi politician ends speculation about Arvind Kejriwal’s desire to lead the state. It allows the emergence of a regional power centre in a very centralised party. But yes, the elections have to be won.