Horror in Kolkata, ‘Mai-Baap culture’ and UCC: PM Modi’s big push in Viksit Bharat’s I-Day speech | Highlights

New Delhi: Prime minister Narendra Modi Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort for the 11th consecutive time as India celebrated its 77 years of independence, making him the third prime minister after Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi to do so. PM Modi, in his address, addressed several current issues including the Kolkata doctor rape and murder case, Wayanad landslides, Uniform Civil Code (UCC), among others.

During his speech, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters and said that today “is a day to remember their sacrifices.”

“We are proud to carry the blood of the 40 million people who uprooted colonial rule from India. Today we are 140 million strong. If we make up our minds and move forward together in one direction, we can become ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 overcoming all obstacles in the way.”

“The youth of my country have no intention of walking slowly now. The youth of my country do not believe in gradual progress. The youth of my country are ready to take a leap, they are ready to jump and reach new heights. I would like to say that this is a golden era for India. Even if we compare it with the world situation, it is a golden era… We should not waste this opportunity… If we go ahead with this opportunity, with our dreams and resolutions, we can achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.”

India’s Stunning Achievement

“On this occasion, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I proudly showcase the impressive and remarkable strength of Bharat to the world. While the other G20 nations fell short, our citizens have risen to the challenge. Notably, India is the only G20 country to have achieved the Paris Agreement goals ahead of schedule. We are committed to scaling up renewable energy to 500 GW by 2030!”

Landslides in Wayanad

“This year and in recent years, due to natural disasters, our concern has increased. Several people have lost their family members and their properties in natural disasters; the nation has also suffered losses. Today, I express my solidarity with all of them and assure them that this nation is with them in this time of crisis.”

Kolkata doctor rape and murder case

“There are also some worrying developments. I want to express my grief from the Red Fort today. As a society, we need to seriously reflect.”

“There is a public outrage over the atrocities committed against our mothers and sisters. I feel that outrage. The country, the society, our state governments must take this seriously. Crimes against women must be investigated at the earliest, those involved in demonic acts must face severe punishment at the earliest, this is necessary to generate faith in the society,” the Prime Minister said, apparently referring to the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

“But when such perverted people are punished, it is not discussed prominently in the media. Time demands that there is also a widespread debate about punishments so that criminals are afraid. It is important to create that fear,” he said.

Uniform Civil Code

“The Supreme Court has held debates on the Uniform Civil Code time and again, passed orders several times. A large section of the country believes – and it is true – that the Civil Code we are living under is actually a Communitarian Civil Code in a way… I would say that there is an urgent need for a Secular Civil Code in the country… Only then will we be free from discrimination based on religion.”

Reforms and responsibility

“We have been entrusted with a huge responsibility and we have introduced important reforms on the ground… I would like to assure the compatriots that our commitment to reforms is not limited to editorials in gossip magazines. Our commitment to reforms is not for a few days of appreciation. Our reform procedure is not due to any compulsion but is intended to strengthen the country. Therefore, I can say that our path to reforms is, in a way, the model of growth. This reform, this growth, this change is not just a topic of discussion for debating clubs, intellectual societies and experts. We did not do it out of political compulsions… we have only one resolve: nation first.”

Attack on ‘Parivarvad’

“India’s democracy is being undermined by the evils of ‘Parivarvad’ and ‘Jaativad’. It is essential to free our political landscape from the clutches of dynastic rule! Our mission is to empower a new generation of leaders – 100,000 youth who have no political legacy in their families. We want to see youth without any family connection in politics stepping forward, leading and representing the people.”

‘Mai-Baap Culture’

“Unfortunately, in the past, people had to endure a ‘mai-baap’ culture, where they had to ask the government for everything they needed. Today, we have transformed this model of governance.”

India celebrates its 77th anniversary Independence Day

The ceremony at the Red Fort began with Prime Minister Modi being received by senior government and military officials, followed by an inspection by the Guard of Honour. This was followed by a symbolic moment where the Prime Minister hoisted the national flag, accompanied by a 21-gun salute by the 1721 Field Battery, using indigenous 105 mm light field guns.

This year, around 6,000 special guests representing various sections of Indian society including youth, tribal communities, farmers, women and beneficiaries of various government programmes have been invited to witness the ceremony.