Videos and images from the event show Rahul Gandhi standing in the rain, seemingly unaffected by the weather, as others around him held umbrellas. Congress quickly framed this as an act of dedication, portraying it as a testament to his love for the nation. However, BJP leaders seized the opportunity to mock the leader. BJP spokesperson Radhika Kheda tweeted, “Raat ko party mein zyaada ho gayi thi… Mafi kijiye, matlab raat ko party zyaada ho gayi thi,” implying a lack of seriousness. Similarly, Shivam Tyagi questioned, “Bhai ki neend puri nahi hui ya kuch aur wajah hai?” while BJP leader Tajinder Bagga escalated the attack, highlighting Rahul’s association with Jagdish Tytler, accused in the 1984 Sikh riots, further tarnishing the Congress image.
This incident is not an isolated misstep. The Congress party’s decision to boycott the Red Fort ceremony, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag, has added fuel to the fire. While political differences are inevitable, the Red Fort is a symbol of national unity, not a stage for party politics. The tricolor that flutters there represents the collective pride of 1.4 billion Indians, transcending partisan lines. By choosing to stay away, the opposition, led by Congress, missed a golden opportunity to stand united for the country, sending a confusing message to the public.
Rahul Gandhi and the Congress leadership must introspect. Independence Day is a moment to honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters, not to indulge in petty political games. The party’s attempt to spin Rahul’s rain-soaked appearance as patriotism falls flat when juxtaposed with their absence from the Red Fort. The BJP’s narrative, though laced with sarcasm, has gained traction because it exposes a lack of gravitas. Associating with figures like Tytler, as Bagga pointed out, only deepens the perception of insensitivity, further alienating the party from the public.
The Congress needs to realize that national occasions demand maturity and unity. Boycotting the Red Fort event was a strategic blunder, reflecting poorly on their understanding of democratic responsibility. The public expects the opposition to critique the government constructively, not to shun symbols of national heritage. Rahul Gandhi, as a prominent leader, should lead by example, showing respect for traditions that bind the nation together.
Moreover, the party’s defense of Rahul’s appearance lacks credibility when viewed alongside their broader conduct. If the intent was to demonstrate patriotism, participating in the official ceremony would have been a more powerful statement than a rain-drenched photo-op. The BJP’s jibes, while politically motivated, highlight a truth: Congress appears more focused on image-building than substance.
It’s time for Rahul Gandhi and the Congress to course-correct. The nation deserves an opposition that rises above personal or party agendas, especially on days like Independence Day. The lost opportunity at the Red Fort and the subsequent controversy over Rahul’s demeanor have damaged their credibility. A sincere apology and a commitment to future participation could be a starting point. Until then, the party risks being seen as out of touch with the values it claims to uphold.