Kharge, Rahul Gandhi skip 80th Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort
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Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi were absent from the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on Saturday, marking the second consecutive year both leaders have skipped the official ceremony led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The decision continues a pattern of absence that highlights ongoing friction between the government and the Opposition. The row traces back to the 2024 ceremony, where controversy erupted after Rahul Gandhi was seated in the second-last row. Despite holding Cabinet ministerial status as Leader of Opposition—a role typically assigned front-row seating under established protocol—the Defence Ministry attributed the adjustment to accommodating visiting Olympic athletes.
The leaders' absence coincides with heightened political tensions following the conclusion of Parliament's Monsoon Session on Thursday. The session saw minimal legislative discussion and frequent disruptions, culminating in Congress, the Trinamool Congress, and the Samajwadi Party boycotting the customary post-session tea meeting hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
Meanwhile, official celebrations at the Red Fort proceeded with Prime Minister Modi unfurling the Tricolour, accompanied by a traditional 21-gun salute, a helicopter flower shower, and the annual address to the nation.
(Inputs from IANS)