‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress releases LoP's report card

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday (Aug 15) extended his Independence Day greetings to the nation, saying freedom was a protective shield woven into the Constitution. "Happy Independence Day to all countrymen. For us, freedom is not just a word - it is our biggest protective shield, woven into constitutional and democratic values," the Congress leader said.

"This is the power of expression, the ability to speak the truth and the hope to fulfil dreams. Jai Hind," he added in his post on social media platform X.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also issued separate statements on the country’s Independence Day.

Kharge in his speech accused the PM Narendra Modi-led Union government of turning autonomous institutions into its puppets.

"We will protect this till the last breath. The Opposition is oxygen for democracy. It checks the government's unconstitutional attitude and amplifies the people's voice. It is worrying that the government has turned constitutional and autonomous institutions into puppets," he said.

Kharge hoisted the national flag at the headquarters in the presence of Rahul Gandhi and former party president Sonia Gandhi.

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Priyanka Gandhi said freedom, democracy, justice, equality and national unity are our national pledges.

"These values are the foundation of our Constitution. Protecting them is our most important duty towards the nation. Our pledge to protect our freedom, Constitution and its values is firm. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat," she said.

India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on August 15. As a part of an annual tradition, PM Modi hoisted the national flag and addressed the nation from the Red Fort in New Delhi.

Congress releases Rahul Gandhi’s report card

Congress party also took the opportunity to release Rahul Gandhi’s report card of his 50 days as the Leader of the Opposition in the lower house of the Indian Parliament.

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The report card highlighted that Gandhi gave nine speeches at Parliament, held five press conferences, visited nine states and interacted with 25 groups, including labourers, farmers, loco pilots and students.

(With inputs from agencies)