New Delhi [India], January 26 : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, calling for "defence of the principles and spirit of the Constitution."
Mallikarjun Kharge unfurled the national flag at his residence, 10, Rajaji Marg, on the occasion.
The Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha wrote on X, "It is the need of the hour that we stand firmly in defence of the principles and spirit of our Constitution. Justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, these are the enduring values bestowed upon us by our founders, and safeguarding them is our sacred duty."
"We must be prepared to make every necessary sacrifice to protect the Constitution. This alone will be our true tribute to the sacrifices of our ancestors. Once again, on this proud occasion of Republic Day, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all of you," Kharge added.
Republic Day, observed annually on January 26, marks the day India adopted its Constitution in 1950, officially becoming a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The day holds immense historical significance as it represents the culmination of India's long struggle for independence and the establishment of constitutional governance based on justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
Earlier today, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi extended wishes on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, calling the Constitution the "greatest weapon for every Indian."
Gandhi posted on X, "Heartfelt Republic Day wishes to all my fellow citizens. Our Constitution is the greatest weapon for every Indian - it is our voice, the protective shield for our rights."
Asserting that the Constitution is the core of the Indian Republic, he added, "Our Republic stands on the strong foundation of this very document, which will be empowered only through equality and harmony. Protecting the Constitution is protecting the Indian Republic - it is a true tribute to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters. Jai Hind! Jai Constitution!"
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also wished the people on the occasion, stating that the Constitution is a shield that safeguards the interests of Indians.
She took to X, posting, "Heartfelt Republic Day wishes to all my fellow citizens. On this day, our Constitution came into effect, guaranteeing every Indian the values of liberty, equality, justice, and fraternity. Our Constitution is the shield protecting us, 140 crore Indians. Our resolve to safeguard it is as strong as a rock. Long live the Constitution! Long live India!"