New Delhi, Jan. 27 -- The BJP and Congress sparred on Tuesday over the seating arrangements controversy at the Republic Day celebrations, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accusing the BJP of intentionally "insulting" the opposition in view of the series of assembly elections in 2016.

The Congress chief further accused the BJP of "insulting" the Constitution by making two opposition leaders sit in the third row during the event. He also clarified on the row surrounding the Assamese "Gamosa' that erupted during the reception hosted by President Draupadi Murmu after Republic Day parade.

"He (Rahul Gandhi) had worn the 'Gamosa'. At the time he was eating, he folded it and kept it. They (BJP) are making an issue of it...They insult...