‘Some people can’t understand patriotism’: Rahul Gandhi on ‘extinguishing’ Amar Jawan Jyoti

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi attacked on Friday Centre for 'extinguishing' Amar Jawan Jyoti flame at India Gate, an iconic landmark in the national capital, after 50 years.

"It is a matter of great sadness that the immortal flame that used to burn for our brave soldiers will be extinguished today," Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet.

In a subtle jibe at the Centre, the Congress MP added, “Some people cannot understand patriotism and sacrifice - never mind We will once again light the Amar Jawan Jyoti for our soldiers.”

However, Centre clarified that the flame of the Amar Jawan Jyoti is not being extinguished, but it is being merged with the flame at the National War Memorial.

Government sources said, “There is a lot of misinformation circulating regarding the flame of the Amar Jawan Jyoti, the flame of the Amar Jawan Jyoti is not being extinguished. It is being merged with the flame at the National War Memorial.”

“The names of all Indian martyrs from all the wars, including 1971 and wars before and after it are housed at the National War Memorial. Hence it is a true shraddhanjali to have the flame paying tribute to martyrs there,” added Govt sources.

Govt sources further said, “It is ironic that people who did not make a National War Memorial for 7 decades are now making a hue and cry when a permanent and fitting tribute is being made to our martyrs.” (Inputs from UNI)