NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's words that he will return to Red Fort next year to present the development achievements of the country. Modi made the statement during his Independence Day speech. Responding to the speech, Kharge said that Modi will be hoisting the national flag at home next year.

"Modi will hoist the National Flag once again next year. However, he will do that at his home," Kharge said.

Kharge had not attended the ceremony held at the Red Fort as part of the 77th Independence Day celebrations. Meanwhile, he hoisted the flag at the Congress headquarters in Delhi. Kharge explained that he was absent from the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort because of an eye problem.

"Firstly, I have some eye-related problems. Secondly, I had to hoist the Tricolour at my residence at 9:20 am as per protocols. Then, I had to come to the Congress office and hoist the Tricolour. So, I could not have reached here (party office) on time as the security was so tight."

Although he did not go to the Red Fort in person, Kharge wished the country a happy Independence Day through a video recording.

LIVE: Independence Day flag hoisting by Congress President Shri @Kharge at AICC HQ. https://t.co/tckdG6MPxp

— Congress (@INCIndia) August 15, 2023