Actor Saurabh Shukla’s video has gone viral on social media, where he shares his experience of breaking protocol while receiving the National Film Award for his performance in Jolly LLB. Saurabh Shukla shared his special experience of receiving the National Film Award and how he accidentally broke protocol.

He explained that award winners must arrive in Delhi a day before the ceremony for a rehearsal, where they practice without the President. On the actual award day, recipients are expected to follow strict rules, including greeting the President politely without shaking hands or touching.

Shukla recalled, “This was the most special award of my life, and there’s a beautiful story behind it. A day before the ceremony, I attended the rehearsal. On the award day, after my name was announced, I received the award from then-President Pranab Mukherjee. But when he told me that he had watched my film twice, I got so excited that I instinctively asked for a handshake, and he kindly agreed.”

This incident brings to mind a similar protocol breach in January 2023 involving Amba Seoul, a junior engineer from Rajasthan’s Public Health Engineering Department (PHED).

During the Scout Guide Jamboree inauguration in Rohat, Pali district, Seoul attempted to touch President Droupadi Murmu’s feet, breaking the security barrier. Security personnel immediately stepped in, detaining her for questioning before releasing her.

The Home Ministry took the incident seriously, calling it a security lapse and requesting a detailed report from the Rajasthan Police. As a result, Seoul was suspended on January 12, 2023, for violating the Rajasthan Civil Services Rules, 1958.

Is it against protocol?

This raises an important question: Is it against protocol to touch or shake hands with the President? The answer is yes. The President’s security is a top priority, and any unauthorized physical contact is considered both a breach of protocol and a security risk.

In India, the President holds the highest constitutional position, and there are established protocols for greetings, such as a polite bow or a ‘Namaste’ with folded hands. Government officials and employees are expected to follow these guidelines, and touching the President’s feet is considered a breach of discipline.

While Saurabh Shukla’s minor protocol lapse during his award acceptance did not lead to any repercussions, Amba Seoul faced suspension for violating official decorum. This underscores the importance of maintaining proper protocol in the presence of the President, ensuring both respect and security for the nation’s highest office.

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