On August 15, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest Independence Day speech, lasting 98 minutes, surpassing his previous record of 96 minutes set in 2016. Addressing the nation from the Red Fort on India's 78th Independence Day, Modi's speeches average 82 minutes, the longest for any Indian prime minister. His shortest speech was 56 minutes in 2017. This address marks his 11th Independence Day speech, and his third-longest in terms of duration. Historical comparisons show Modi’s speeches significantly exceed those of his predecessors.

Tens of thousands of women marched through Kolkata on August 14, 2024, protesting the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College. The Reclaim the Night march, held on Independence Day, was fueled by outrage over the brutal crime and allegations of negligence. Protesters carried candles and torches, chanting for justice despite heavy rain and clashes with police. Smaller protests occurred in Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities. The case has been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation amid claims of a cover-up. Organizers hailed the scale as unprecedented.

In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to host the 2036 Olympics. Speaking from the Red Fort, Modi emphasized the country’s readiness, citing successful events like the G20 Summit as proof of its capabilities. Competing with nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, India is positioning Ahmedabad as a potential host city. Modi also congratulated Indian athletes for their performance at the Paris Olympics, where India won six medals. He extended best wishes to the Indian Paralympic team set to compete in Paris later this month.

In Ayodhya, lights valued over ₹50 lakh were stolen from Ram Path and Bhakti Path, high-security zones near the Ram temple. The FIR, lodged on August 9, details the theft of 3,800 bamboo lights and 36 projector lights installed under a contract by Yash Enterprises and Krishna Automobiles. The theft was reported during a survey on May 9. Ayodhya's divisional commissioner, Gaurav Dayal, criticized the claim, suggesting exaggeration given the area's security. Police are investigating the complaint, noting inconsistencies and delays in the report.

In Kolkata, a mob stormed RG Kar Medical College and Hospital early Thursday, vandalizing property and assaulting doctors protesting the rape and murder of a fellow doctor. Eyewitness Anupam Roy reported the attack was a deliberate attempt to break the protest. Despite the presence of police, security was reportedly insufficient, and calls for additional support went unanswered. The mob damaged the emergency ward, medical store, and CCTV cameras. Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee has demanded the identification and arrest of the perpetrators. The CBI has since taken over the investigation.

For the first time in a decade, a Leader of the Opposition attended India's Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP and newly appointed Leader of the Opposition, was seen seated with Indian Olympic medallists such as Manu Bhaker and PR Sreejesh. Despite his important role, Gandhi was placed in the second last row, unlike previous leaders who occupied front-row seats. This seating arrangement was attributed to protocol and the presence of Olympic stars. PM Modi, in his 11th consecutive address, highlighted various national issues and set ambitious goals for India.

On India’s 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly advocated for 'One Nation, One Election,' urging political parties to support simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly polls. Addressing the nation from the Red Fort, Modi highlighted the inefficiency and disruptions caused by frequent elections. “Every work is linked to elections, creating hurdles in progress,” he stated. Modi emphasized that extensive consultations have been held, and a unified electoral cycle could enhance developmental focus. The proposal has faced opposition from some parties but has received backing from the BJP and several experts.

The autopsy of the doctor raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College reveals multiple penetrations, indicating the possible involvement of more than one assailant. Dr. Subarna Goswami, who reviewed the report, stated that the injuries were antemortem, with the victim subjected to severe brutality and genital torture. The autopsy details suggest the woman was sexually assaulted multiple times before being throttled and smothered to death. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage, leading to a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe. A civic volunteer has been arrested in connection with the crime.

In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced concerns over the safety of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh amid ongoing unrest. "One hundred and forty crore Indians are worried about the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh," Modi said, emphasizing India’s role as a well-wisher of Bangladesh. He urged for the protection of minorities, noting, "We hope the situation normalizes soon." Recent violence in Bangladesh, following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has targeted the Hindu community, affecting over fifty districts.

In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the urgency of instilling fear through the strictest punishment for crimes against women. He acknowledged public outrage over the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor in Kolkata and called for speedy investigations and harsh penalties to restore public trust. Modi stressed that such punishments should be widely discussed to deter potential offenders. His remarks come as nationwide protests demand justice for the victim. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also urged swift action from the CBI.