'Freedom not merely gift, but also responsibility': Rahul extends I-Day wishes to citizens

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday extended Independence Day greetings to citizens, saying the freedom inherited from India's freedom fighters was not merely a gift but also carried a responsibility to uphold truth, non-violence, constitutional values and democracy. As India celebrated its 80th Independence Day, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha used his message to underline the role of citizens in safeguarding the principles on which the country's democracy rests. "Heartfelt Independence Day greetings to all fellow citizens. Freedom is not merely a gift bestowed upon us by our freedom fighters, but also a responsibility," Gandhi said in a post on X.

Elaborating on that responsibility, Gandhi said citizens must follow the path of truth and non-violence, keep the values of the Constitution and the Tricolour close to their hearts and protect democracy in all circumstances.

Special message for youth

Gandhi also singled out India's young people in his Independence Day message, expressing pride in their role in defending democratic and constitutional values.

The Congress leader said he was proud that citizens, particularly the youth, remained united in protecting these principles. His remarks placed the younger generation at the centre of his appeal to preserve the country's democratic foundations.

The message was consistent with Gandhi's repeated emphasis in recent years on the Constitution, democratic institutions and the rights guaranteed to citizens.

Rather than limiting his Independence Day message to a tribute to the freedom struggle, Gandhi sought to connect the sacrifices of India's freedom fighters with what he described as the continuing responsibilities of present-day citizens.

Kharge remembers freedom struggle

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also extended greetings on Independence Day, paying tribute to the generations of Indians who participated in the freedom movement.

Kharge's message focused on the sacrifices that led to Independence as well as the need to protect constitutional and democratic values. He also highlighted the rights and aspirations of young people, farmers, women and marginalised sections.

The Congress leadership has increasingly made the protection of the Constitution a central element of its political messaging, frequently linking constitutional guarantees with questions of social justice, representation and democratic accountability.

Gandhi's Independence Day remarks followed the same theme, presenting freedom as something that has to be continuously protected rather than simply commemorated once a year.

Nation marks 80th Independence Day

India marked its 80th Independence Day on Saturday with celebrations across the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the main national ceremony at the Red Fort in Delhi, where he unfurled the Tricolour and delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day address as Prime Minister.

Political leaders across party lines also paid tribute to India's freedom fighters and extended greetings to citizens. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several chief ministers and Opposition leaders issued messages commemorating the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle.

Gandhi's message, however, focused strongly on the idea that Independence brings obligations alongside rights.

By invoking truth and non-violence, constitutional values, the national flag and the protection of democracy, the Congress leader sought to frame the anniversary not only as a celebration of the freedom achieved in 1947 but also as a reminder of the responsibility of successive generations to preserve it.