Guwahati: If Himanta Biswa Sarma's swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday showcased the BJP-led NDA's political strength, the travel choices of leaders attending the event told another story amid Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for austerity.
Leaders Choose Diverse Modes of Travel
One name that stands out is Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who set the tone by arriving in Guwahati aboard the Vande Bharat Express. This move resonated with Modi's emphasis on frugality and public transport, according to details provided by Assam Police.
Some union ministers, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, also chose modest commercial flights. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan shared a special aircraft, reflecting both practicality and cost-consciousness.
In sharp contrast, several other chief ministers and deputy chief ministers opted for special chartered flights.
State Leaders' Travel Choices
Among the state leaders, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi travelled by state aircraft along with his two deputy chief ministers, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida.
A source said the LGBI airport received at least 20 chartered flights carrying dignitaries attending the chief minister's swearing-in function.
Background and Context
This event highlights the varying approaches to travel among political leaders, even as the central government promotes austerity measures. The use of Vande Bharat Express by Sikkim's CM was particularly notable for its alignment with public transport advocacy.
