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Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge Skip Independence Day Event Again

General8 sourcesAug 16, 2026
FlatRigor 49Analysis8 sources

The Story

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge skipped the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on Saturday, August 15, for the second consecutive year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the customary address to the nation at the event. The absence of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Leaders of Opposition comes amid a controversy over seat allocation at the Red Fort. Sources indicated that Gandhi and Kharge were unconvinced by the seating arrangements. The BJP criticized their absence, with one leader calling it childish. Congress leader Pawan Khera defended the decision, stating that the BJP see an insult in everything. Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attacked the Congress over remarks allegedly involving a woman Prime Minister of a friendly country, calling it disgraceful and an example of intellectual bankruptcy and political desperation. He specifically criticized Rahul Gandhi and Sandeep Dikshit for what he described as a cheap political joke that was an affront to diplomatic dignity. Separately, Rahul Gandhi announced that the next "Chhatron ki Goonj" event, focusing on student issues, would be held in Pune on August 22. Gandhi also greeted people on Independence Day, stating that freedom is a responsibility to walk on the path of truth and hold the values of the Constitution in hearts.

The Spread

What they agree on

  • Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge skipped the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on August 15.
  • This is the second consecutive year that Gandhi and Kharge have missed the event.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the customary Independence Day address at the Red Fort.

Where they split

  • The Times of India and News18 frame the absence as a controversy over seating arrangements, citing sources.
  • Organiser and India Today highlight criticism of Congress leaders' remarks concerning a foreign leader.
  • News18 and India TV News include Pawan Khera's defense of the Congress leaders' decision to skip the event.
  • India Today and Hindustan Times mention the BJP's characterization of the absence as 'childish'.

Source Perspectives

Center7 sources
Right1 source