Amid patriotic fervour and strong nationalist sentiment, the 10-day Tiranga Yatra kicked off in the national capital on Tuesday, with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and fervent support for Operation Sindoor. The rally was organised under the banner of Citizens for National Security and backed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The event saw participation from Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, BJP leaders Ashish Sood, Bansuri Swaraj, and hundreds of citizens – including school children, NCC cadets, doctors, retired officials, and civil society members – all marching with the Indian tricolour from Kartavya Path to the National War Memorial.
A striking poster at the rally read, “Pakistan ka poorn sanhaar, poorn desh ki ab ek pukar” (Total destruction of Pakistan is now the nation’s call), reflecting the prevailing mood of the participants.
The Tiranga Yatra aimed to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor, which, according to many attendees, demonstrated India’s strategic and military strength. BJP supporters like Saurabh Kumar claimed that Pakistan had pleaded for ceasefire after suffering heavy blows, including alleged strikes on critical installations.
Several attendees, like Dr Harish Gupta, highlighted their appreciation for the Indian Armed Forces, stating, “We save lives, but they save the country. This is our way of honouring them.”
There was also criticism of social media abuse directed at Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s family, with participants like Nirmal Chahal condemning the personal targeting.
Many, like Lalu Prasad from Prayagraj, credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Army, and national leadership for what they termed a “decisive Indian victory,” adding, “Pakistan cried for mercy, and America intervened.”
However, not all voices at the rally called for prolonged conflict. NGO worker Avantika Kumari supported the ceasefire and called for “understanding and discussion” to resolve bilateral tensions.
Young students like Aryan expressed aspirations to join the armed forces, echoing the nationalistic sentiment. Meanwhile, participants like Subhash Mehta, a witness to the 1971 and Kargil wars, believed the ceasefire came too soon and considered it a temporary pause.
Amid the vibrant chants and patriotic songs like Mere Desh Ki Dharti, Delhi Police and Civil Defence volunteers maintained order, with many joining in the celebrations.
While political affiliations were evident, participants insisted the event was about national pride and saluting the soldiers. “We’re here for Bharat and our martyrs,” many attendees reiterated.
