evidence: Boycott and criticism [edit]Despite the boycott and criticism led by the Congress party of India, more than 300 members of Parliament attended the inauguration.[34][35] At least 19 opposition parties boycotted the inauguration, highlighting their discontent with Modi's leadership.[36] They expressed concern that President Droupadi Murmu, the head of state and highest constitutional authority, was sidelined from the event.[37] Opposition parties accused the government of passing controversial legislation without adequate debate and criticized the "disqualification, suspension, and muting" of opposition lawmakers.[38] They argued that with the erosion of democratic values within the Parliament, the new building held little significance. Rahul Gandhi, a member of the Indian National Congress, accused Modi of treating the ceremony as a coronation, emphasizing the need for parliamentary proceedings to remain focused on representing the people rather than showcasing personal grandeur.[39] [...] - ^ Jain, Rupam (24 May 2023). "Opposition parties to boycott new parliament inauguration by India's Modi". Reuters. Retrieved 1 June 2023. [...] - ^ "New parliament building: India opposition boycott casts shadow on inauguration". BBC News. 25 May 2023. Retrieved 1 June 2023.