Rahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip 2026 Independence Day Event

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi were absent from the 80th Independence Day celebrations held at the Red Fort in Delhi on Saturday. The official national ceremony was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The absence of the two senior Congress leaders for the second consecutive year has become a topic of political discussion.

The development comes against the backdrop of Congress’ earlier objections over seating arrangements at national functions. In 2024, the party had raised concerns after Rahul Gandhi was reportedly seated in the fifth row during the Independence Day celebrations. Congress had argued that the Leader of Opposition, whose position is equivalent to that of a Cabinet Minister under the Warrant of Precedence, should have been given appropriate seating.

The Defence Ministry had explained that the seating arrangement was made according to protocol and that the placement of Olympic athletes was also given priority. The ministry has maintained that seating at official ceremonies is determined by constitutional positions and the Table of Precedence rather than political affiliations.