Why Did LoP Rahul and Cong Chief Kharge Skip I-Day at Red Fort?
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Synopsis
The absence of Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge from Independence Day celebrations has sparked outrage from the BJP. They claim it's an insult to the Sena, Constitution, and martyrs. This incident rekindles last year's seating controversy, raising questions about the Congress party's alignment with national values.
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi and Kharge skipped a crucial national event.
- BJP condemned their actions as disrespectful.
- The incident recalls last year's seating controversy.
- Concerns about Congress's commitment to national values are rising.
- Political participation in national events is vital for unity.
New Delhi, Aug 15 (NationPress) As Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi and party President Mallikarjun Kharge opted not to attend the Independence Day festivities at the Red Fort, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla condemned their absence, labeling it an insult to the Sena, the Constitution, 'Operation Sindoor', and the sacrifices of freedom fighters and martyrs.
Their absence drew attention to last year's debacle during Independence Day, where Rahul Gandhi—who is recognized as a Cabinet minister—was seated in a less prominent position, breaking established norms and protocols.
Poonawalla asserted, “As we celebrate Independence Day, it’s not merely a birthday or party event. The Congress has revealed itself as something other than the Indian National Congress; they’ve become the Islamabad National Congress or the Italian National Congress. By boycotting the celebrations, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, has shown he is not only ‘Modi Virodhi’ but also ‘Desh Virodhi’ and ‘Sena Virodhi.' Today, we honored 'Operation Sindoor,' and it seems opposing the Sena has become a routine for Congress.
He continued, stating that the LoP has “consistently opposed the very concept of India. This boycott is a direct affront to the Sena, the Constitution, 'Operation Sindoor', and our brave freedom fighters and martyrs. Regrettably, this has become synonymous with the Congress party. Even the Supreme Court has remarked on his failure to communicate like an Indian.”
Earlier, Poonawalla took to social media platform X, commenting: “During a TV debate, a Congress spokesperson confirmed that LoP Rahul Gandhi missed the August 15 celebrations at the Red Fort. This was a significant national event, yet sadly, the 'Lover of Pakistan' Rahul Gandhi, in his opposition to Modi, has turned against both the nation and the Sena! Such behavior is shameful. Is this how we honor the Sanvidhan and the Sena?”
Last year's Independence Day event stirred up controversy when Rahul Gandhi was placed in the second-last row, contradicting established norms.
The opposition criticized the seating arrangement as an insult to the populace, while the Defence Ministry explained that the layout was modified to include Olympians.
According to protocol, the Leader of the Opposition is entitled to a front-row seat during official ceremonies. Last year, the front row at the Red Fort was filled with notable figures including the then Chief Justice of India and Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Amit Shah, and S. Jaishankar, among others.
Point of View
My stance remains unwaveringly pro-nation. The recent actions of the Congress leadership raise significant concerns about their commitment to national values. Participation in events like Independence Day is crucial for fostering unity and respect for our heroes. It's essential that all political parties prioritize the nation's interests above their partisan agendas.
NationPress
23/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for Rahul Gandhi and Kharge's absence from Independence Day celebrations?
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized their absence, labeling it an insult to the Sena, Constitution, and freedom fighters.
How did BJP react to the Congress leaders' absence?
BJP condemned the absence, accusing the Congress of being disconnected from national values and insulting the sacrifices made for the country.
What controversy arose during last year's Independence Day event?
Rahul Gandhi was seated in a less prominent position, leading to accusations of disrespect towards national traditions.
What is 'Operation Sindoor'?
'Operation Sindoor' refers to a specific initiative related to national security, which has now become a point of contention in political discussions.
How does protocol dictate the seating arrangement for the Leader of the Opposition?
Traditionally, the Leader of the Opposition is granted a front-row seat during ceremonial events, which was not the case last year.
