Targeting the Opposition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said some powers are trying to weaken national unity for the sake of politics and called upon people to identify and fight against this “alliance of urban Naxals.” The Prime Minister was speaking on National Unity Day, which coincided with Diwali this time, near Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s grand statue at Kewadiya in Gujarat.
“Countries are growing apart, but coming close to India. This is not ordinary, a new history is being written. The world is watching how India is resolving its issues. So we have to protect our unity,” he said, after paying tributes to Sardar Patel, who played a key role in national integration after India’s Independence in 1947.
Modi emphasized concern over internal and external threats to India’s unity. He described how certain “misguided elements” seem anxious about India’s ascent, stating, “Some perverted powers are worried about India’s rise.” According to the Prime Minister, these individuals seek to instigate chaos and instability, intending to deter potential global investors by sending the wrong message about India.
The Prime Minister condemned the misinformation campaigns perpetuated by these forces, accusing them of attempting to divide society along caste lines, which he said weakens the nation's fabric. “They oppose India’s development because their political strategy thrives on creating narratives of ‘poor India, weak India,’” he asserted.
While specific opposition parties or leaders were not named, Modi’s comments seemed directed at the INDIA opposition coalition, led by the Congress party. This coalition has been vocal about their ‘save Constitution’ platform, demanding improvements for marginalized communities through initiatives like caste censuses.
Modi praised his government's initiatives as embodiments of national unity, highlighting the abolition of Article 370, which revoked Jammu and Kashmir's special status, and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as part of the “one nation, one tax” policy.
“Discriminatory policies and intent of previous governments weakened national unity,” he stated, expressing belief in the BJP's road to achieving national integration over the last decade. “We have chosen the path of sabka saath, sabka vikas,” he said, which translates to “together with all, development for all.”
According to the Prime Minister, the Aadhaar system showcases the concept of “one nation, one identity,” and has gained international attention by fostering inclusivity. He also announced plans for “one nation, one election” to streamline political processes and reduce costs, as well as moving toward “one nation, one civil code” to provide uniform laws across India.
During the ceremony, Modi reflected on the significance of implementing “one nation, one Constitution” as his tribute to Sardar Patel. He expressed satisfaction with how, for the first time after 70 years of Independence, elections were conducted without discrimination.
“This is my biggest tribute to Sardar Sahab,” he remarked. He noted how those who speak about the Constitution have often disregarded it, highlighting the significance of the newly instituted voting processes where the Chief Minister now takes his oath on the Constitution of India.
This National Unity Day marks the beginning of celebrations for Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary, with Modi stressing the importance of unity for economic progress, social harmony, and the nation’s development aspirations. "Unity is important for economic progress and our goal to become a developed nation. If we are committed to social justice, unity is the prerequisite. Let us move forward together,” he concluded.
