26 January,2026 10:49 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Rahul Gandhi. File pic
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday extended Republic Day greetings to citizens, asserting that safeguarding the Constitution is synonymous with protecting the Indian Republic and is the truest tribute to the sacrifices of the nation's freedom fighters.
In a message posted on X, Gandhi said the Constitution is every Indian's greatest strength and the guardian of citizens' rights. "Our Republic stands on its strong foundation, which will only be strengthened by equality and harmony. Protecting the Constitution is protecting the Indian Republic - a true tribute to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters," he wrote, concluding with "Jai Hind! Jai Constitution."
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also conveyed Republic Day wishes, noting that this year marks 76 years since the adoption of the Constitution. In his message, Kharge described the Constitution as the enduring guardian of India's conscience and the soul of the Republic, calling on citizens to be prepared to make every sacrifice necessary to safeguard it.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed similar sentiments, stating that the Constitution guarantees liberty, equality, justice and fraternity to every Indian. "Our Constitution is the shield of 1.4 billion Indians. Our resolve to protect it is rock solid," she said.
Meanwhile, the grand Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path is scheduled to begin shortly and will last about 90 minutes. The theme of this year's celebrations is "150 Years of Vande Mataram," with tableaux, cultural performances and displays by the Armed Forces showcasing India's development journey, cultural diversity and military strength.
Republic Day is observed annually on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India, the supreme law binding on all citizens. While India gained Independence on August 15, 1947, governance initially relied on a modified version of the Government of India Act, 1935, along with elements of common law.
Following Independence, a Drafting Committee was constituted to frame a comprehensive Constitution, with Dr B. R. Ambedkar serving as its chairman. After extensive deliberations, the Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949 - now observed as Constitution Day - and came into force on January 26, 1950, marking India's transformation into a sovereign, democratic and republican state governed by the rule of law.
