Republic Day 2024: Prime Minister Modi Steps Back as President Murmu Takes the Flag

India is gearing up to celebrate its 75th Republic Day on January 26, 2024. Amid the annual confusion about who will unfurl the national flag on this significant day, it has been clarified that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be performing the honor. Instead, President Droupadi Murmu will take center stage for the flag-hoisting ceremony on Republic Day 2024.

On Independence Day, the Prime Minister traditionally raises the national flag at the historic Red Fort. However, Republic Day follows a different protocol, commencing with the President of India unfurling the flag at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath and originally named Kingsway).

In stark contrast to Independence Day, where the Prime Minister hoists the flag from the bottom of the pole at Red Fort, symbolizing India's emergence from colonial rule, Republic Day involves the President unfurling the flag already at its peak adorned with flowers. This act symbolizes India's celebration of established freedom and the enactment of its Constitution.

Another notable distinction lies in the subsequent proceedings. Independence Day sees the Prime Minister's flag hoisting at Red Fort followed by a national address, while Republic Day features the President's flag unfurling at Kartavya Path, leading to the grand parade.

The historical significance of January 26 dates back to 1930 when the Indian National Congress began observing it as India's Independence Day to honor freedom fighters. However, in 1947, August 15 became the official Independence Day when power was handed over to India. On January 26, 1950, India officially became a republic as its Constitution was adopted, marking the annual celebration of Republic Day.

This year's Republic Day holds added significance as it marks the 75th celebration of India as a republic, with President Droupadi Murmu at the forefront of the flag-hoisting ceremony. The decision for the President to unfurl the flag on this momentous occasion underscores the historical and democratic essence of Republic Day.

As the nation eagerly awaits the celebrations, this deviation from the usual protocol highlights the diversity of ceremonial practices in India and the importance of preserving historical traditions.