Political Storm Over Rahul Gandhi’s Absence from Beating Retreat Ceremony; BJP Accuses Him of Disrespecting Army and Constitution

New Delhi: A political controversy erupted after Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, did not attend the prestigious Beating Retreat Ceremony 2026. The BJP has accused him of harboring disdain for the Indian Army and the Constitution.

BJP leader Shahzad Poonawalla took to social media platform X on Friday to criticize Gandhi, stating that he prioritized his trip to Thailand over attending key parliamentary and national constitutional events. Poonawalla claimed that Gandhi had previously distanced himself from other significant occasions such as the Vice President’s oath-taking, the Chief Justice of India’s swearing-in, and the Independence Day celebrations on 15 August.

Accusations of Disrespect to the Army

Poonawalla further alleged that while Rahul Gandhi speaks about the Constitution, he often avoids attending crucial programs associated with the Constitution and the armed forces. The BJP leader also claimed that Gandhi had previously used derogatory language referring to the Army, including phrases such as “blood mercenaries,” which Poonawalla described as an insult to the nation’s defense forces.

Beating Retreat Ceremony at Vijay Chowk

The Beating Retreat Ceremony was held on Thursday evening at Vijay Chowk. The grand event featured bands from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and central armed police forces performing patriotic tunes, creating an atmosphere charged with national pride. This year, all seating areas for spectators were named after Indian musical instruments, including Bansuri, Tabla, Sitar, Veena, Shehnai, Mridangam, Sarod, and Santoor, adding a unique cultural touch.

Presence of President and Prime Minister

The ceremony was attended by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The three Chiefs of the Armed Forces and the Chief of Defence Staff were also present, along with several senior officials and members of the public. President Murmu was welcomed at Vijay Chowk by Prime Minister Modi as she arrived to witness the ceremonial display of India’s military traditions.