Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has questioned the absence of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Rajya Sabha counterpart Mallikarjun Kharge from the official Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. Both leaders, who hold constitutional positions, are typically expected to attend the event.
BJP Questions Commitment to National Occasions
BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya criticised Rahul Gandhi on X, saying he appeared “visibly disoriented” at the Congress headquarters celebration and asked why he skipped the Red Fort ceremony. He argued that such absence from a leader of his stature sends a “poor message” about commitment to national occasions. The BJP also questioned Kharge’s non-attendance.
Congress Leaders Share Independence Day Messages
While neither leader attended the Red Fort event, both extended greetings on social media. Rahul Gandhi wished the nation and called for building an India based on truth, equality, respect, and brotherhood, stressing the duty to protect the country’s heritage. Kharge paid tribute to freedom fighters and urged citizens to unite in protecting constitutional institutions, ensuring social justice, and promoting economic empowerment. There has been no official clarification from the Congress on their absence.