New Delhi/IBNS: Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Friday skipped the Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort, drawing criticism from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Rahul skipped the celebrations at Red Fort where Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag on the country's 79th Independence Day.

Later, the Rae Bareli MP was seen hoisting a flag at the party headquarters Indira Bhawan where he joined the Congress workers.

Rahul was accompanied by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

The BJP said the LoP's absence at such a national event "sends a poor message".

BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya said, "Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, was missing from the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort.

"At the Congress HQ event, he appeared visibly disoriented. The nation deserves to know — is he well? And why did he choose to skip the official ceremony? For someone in his position, such absence sends a poor message about his commitment to national occasions."

Wishing the countrymen on Independence Day, Rahul later posted on X, "Heartfelt Independence Day greetings to all countrymen.
This freedom, achieved through the sacrifices of great freedom fighters, is a resolve to build an India where justice rests on the foundation of truth and equality, and every heart is filled with respect and brotherhood. It is the duty of all of us to protect the pride and honor of this precious heritage. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat!"