New Delhi: A political controversy erupted after Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge skipped the official Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort. The BJP condemned their absence as "a new low in disrespecting national events." BJP's Strong Criticism BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla called the boycott unacceptable: "This was a national festival, not a birthday party or political event. The Leader of Opposition's absence proves Congress's disconnect with national sentiments." Congress's Counterargument Congress leader Gurdeep Singh Sappal defended the decision: "For 11 years, PM Modi has used the Red Fort podium to attack opposition rather than promote unity.

ULFA-I and NSCN-YA urge Northeast residents to boycott India’s Independence Day on August 15, calling it meaningless under oppression.