Republic Day controversy: BJP slams Rahul Gandhi over 'patka'; Congress targets Maharashtra minister for omitting Ambedkar

Republic Day controversy: BJP slams Rahul Gandhi over 'patka', calls it hateful mindset

Political controversies marked Republic Day celebrations as the BJP and Congress clashed over separate incidents. The BJP accused Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi of showing disrespect to the Northeast by allegedly refusing to wear a traditional 'patka' despite a request from President Droupadi Murmu, calling it evidence of a "hateful mindset." Congress leaders rejected the charge, saying several leaders, including BJP members, did not wear the attire and the issue was being politicised. Jan 27, 2026
Simran Bala

J&K's Simran Bala creates history, leads CRPF men's contingent at Republic Day Parade

Twenty-six-year-old Simran Bala from the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir created history by leading the CRPF men's contingent at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. The first woman from her district to join the officer ranks of the CRPF, Bala's achievement has become a moment of pride for border communities and an inspiration for young girls. Jan 27, 2026
LG Manoj Sinha

Operation Sindoor not just military action, but India's strategic resolve: LG Sinha

Addressing the gathering after unfurling the National Flag in Jammu, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said Operation Sindoor marked a defining shift in India's security doctrine. He said India has conveyed globally that terror attacks will be met with firm and lawful retaliation, while honouring security forces and martyrs who safeguarded national sovereignty. Jan 26, 2026
R-Day: Prez Murmu, Chief Guests Antonio Costa, Ursula von der Leyen receive warm welcome at Karavya Path

R-Day: Prez Murmu, Chief Guests Antonio Costa, Ursula von der Leyen receive warm welcome at Karavya Path

President Droupadi Murmu, along with Republic Day Chief Guests European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Kartavya Path during the Republic Day celebrations. They arrived in a traditional buggy, escorted by the President's Bodyguard, reviving a ceremonial tradition after 40 years. Jan 26, 2026
Terror attack

Republic Day: Multi-tier security grid in place across Jammu and Kashmir

Ahead of Republic Day, authorities have enforced a multi-layered security arrangement across J&K, deploying additional police and paramilitary forces, drones, and CCTV surveillance. Border areas and sensitive locations are under heightened watch, while senior officers have reviewed preparedness to ensure smooth and secure celebrations across the UT. Jan 25, 2026