Mallikarjun Kharge Skips Red Fort Independence Day Event; Spurs Controversy

New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge chose to skip the Independence Day event at the Red Fort, citing potential delays caused by security restrictions that could have hindered his presence at the party headquarters’ flag-hoisting ceremony in central Delhi.

Kharge’s absence led to criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Union Minister Anurag Thakur suggesting it reflected the Congress party’s mindset.

In a brief video shared on social media, Kharge emphasized the historical contributions of various prime ministers, countering the notion that the country’s development had only occurred in recent years. He expressed concern about threats to democracy and autonomous bodies, highlighting instances like MPs being suspended indefinitely and opposition leaders’ speeches facing censorship.

Kharge raised these concerns during the Independence Day function at the Congress headquarters, attended by Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders. He reiterated that his absence from the Red Fort event was due to his eye problem and the commitment to hoist the national flag both at his residence and the Congress office.

Responding to questions about his absence, Kharge explained that the time constraints between the Red Fort and the Congress office prevented his attendance. Congress leader Manickam Tagore emphasized their celebration of Independence Day with the people.

Pawan Khera, another senior Congress leader, questioned the necessity for everyone to attend the Prime Minister’s speech, suggesting that logistical challenges could arise given the timing and routes involved.