The Indian National Congress (INC) marked its 140th Foundation Day on Sunday, with party president Mallikarjun Kharge highlighting the organisation’s long-standing commitment to public welfare, social justice, and inclusive growth. Extending greetings to the nation, Kharge said the Congress was built on the principles of equality, empowerment, and constitutional values.

Speaking on the occasion, Kharge described the Congress’ history as a “glorious saga of truth, non-violence, sacrifice, struggle and patriotism.” He emphasised that the party has consistently worked to ensure equal political, economic, and social rights for all citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution of India. “The foundation of the Congress lies in the belief of equal opportunity for all and inclusive development,” he said.

Senior Congress leaders, including Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and several other leaders, attended the flag-hoisting ceremony at the party headquarters, Indira Bhawan. The event marked 140 years since the formation of one of India’s oldest political parties.

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In a post on X, Kharge reiterated the Congress’ ideological commitment and extended his best wishes to citizens on the occasion. “My best wishes to every Indian on Congress Foundation Day. Jai Hind, Jai Congress,” he wrote, sharing a video message along with his post.

The Congress party also took to social media to congratulate its members and supporters, while taking a swipe at the ruling BJP-led government. The party said that while it fought for India’s independence and nation-building, it continues to oppose what it described as “hatred, injustice, and oppression” being promoted by those currently in power.

The Indian National Congress was founded on December 28, 1885, in Bombay (now Mumbai), at Das Tejpal Sanskrit College, in the presence of 72 delegates. Allan Octavian Hume served as its founding general secretary, while Vyomesh Chandra Banerjee became the party’s first president. Over the decades, the Congress has played a central role in India’s freedom movement and post-independence governance, shaping much of the country’s political history.

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