NEW DELHI, AUGUST 15: Senior opposition leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi marked the nation’s 80th Independence Day at the Congress headquarters rather than the primary state ceremony at the Red Fort, highlighting continuing disputes over event protocol and seating placement.
The national event saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurl the tricolour and deliver the customary address to the nation before assembled dignitaries, foreign diplomats, and citizens.
The row over seating arrangements stems from disputes regarding the relative positioning of the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, both of whom hold Cabinet minister rank. Congress representatives asserted that official protocol warrants front-row seating for key parliamentary leaders during national celebrations.
Defence Ministry officials clarified that seating allocations were structured according to standard protocols and space requirements for honored guests, referencing past seating arrangements provided to previous Leaders of Opposition.
Congress sources maintained that the seating arrangements were inconvenient and failed to reflect standard parliamentary protocol, leading both leaders to opt out of the Red Fort function.
The absence drew sharp reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party, with party leaders asserting that national celebrations should transcend political differences and protocol disputes.
While official celebrations proceeded at the Red Fort under central administration, opposition members conducted parallel observances at Indira Bhawan, unfurling the national flag and extending greetings to the public.
