Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, participated in the Independence Day celebrations at New Delhi's Red Fort on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his address to the nation during the event. This marks a significant moment, as it is the first time a Leader of the Opposition has attended these celebrations in recent years. The position had remained unfilled since 2014 due to the lack of sufficient representation from opposition parties in the Lok Sabha.
The Leader of the Opposition post in the Lok Sabha remained vacant from 2014 to 2024. This was because none of the opposition parties had enough MPs to qualify for the position during that period. However, after the Congress Party improved its seat count in the recent Lok Sabha elections, Rahul Gandhi was appointed as the Leader of the Opposition on June 25, 2024.
Rahul Gandhi’s presence at the Independence Day celebrations is seen as a notable development in Indian politics. The event highlights his new role and the changing dynamics within the Lok Sabha.
The Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort are a key event in India, with the Prime Minister's address being one of the central moments. Gandhi's attendance as the Leader of the Opposition adds a new dimension to the event, reflecting the evolving political landscape in the country.