PM Modi delivers 78th Independence Day speech: ‘Uninspiring, ignored pressing issues’, says opposition | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Opposition leaders criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday for his Independence Day speech, claiming it lacked the ability to unite and inspire the nation while ignoring pressing issues.
PM Modi’s speech: Full text
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address, made an unequivocal pitch for a uniform civil code in the country, asserting that a “secular civil code” in place of the existing “communal” one is the need of the hour.
In his 11th straight address to the nation, his third term’s first, from the ramparts of the Red Fort on Independence Day, PM Modi also pushed forcefully for ‘one nation one election‘.
In the 98-minute speech, his longest Independence Day speech, PM Modi asserted that it is India’s golden era and a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 awaits the nation. The prime minister also reiterated his push for ridding Indian politics of casteism and nepotism.
He further called for entry into public life of one lakh youngsters with no family ties to politics so that the fresh blood brings in a new mindset that enriches democracy.

Cong attacks PM over Bangladesh Hindus

On PM Modi’s comments on Bangladesh, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera asked what the PM as “custodian of Hindus” done to protect the Hindu minorities in the neighbouring nation.
In his speech PM Modi had said: “I understand the concerns regarding recent events in Bangladesh, especially given our proximity as a neighboring country. I hope that the situation there soon returns to normalcy. The primary concern of our 140 crore citizens is to ensure the safety of Hindus, the minorities in Bangladesh. Bharat has always desired that our neighboring countries pursue a path of contentment and peace. Our commitment to peace is deeply rooted in our culture. In the days to come, our positive thoughts will continue to accompany Bangladesh on its development journey because we are the people dedicated to the welfare of humanity.”
Khera attacked the PM stating: “He calls himself custodian of Hindus, he talks big. List the steps to protect the Hindus of Bangladesh, what steps have you taken.”

Opposition find speech ‘uninspiring’

D Raja, general secretary of the Communist Party of India, stated that PM Modi’s address from the Red Fort on India’s 78th Independence Day failed to present any unifying themes before the nation to “unite and inspire” people.
“His remarks align with the divisive agenda of the RSS,” Raja told PTI, adding that while the PM spoke of aspirations for 2047, he neglected to address the country’s diversity and plurality, instead imposing a sense of uniformity.
Raja highlighted that PM Modi did not mention how his government would respond to the allegations in the Hindenburg Research report.
“What action will be taken regarding the Hindenburg allegations? Institutions like SEBI are compromised, and the Election Commission has been undermined. The Prime Minister avoided addressing any real issues facing the country today,” he stated.
Annie Raja, general secretary of the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) and a CPI leader, also criticised the PM’s speech, questioning the concept of ‘One Nation One Election’.
She argued that if the government cannot fund elections properly, it raises doubts about its ambition for India to become an economic superpower by 2047. “If we can’t manage elections, what are we aiming for in 2047? The priority should be ensuring free and fair elections,” she asserted.

RJD slams PM’s ‘narrow approach’

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Manoj Jha expressed concern that Modi failed to recognise that he is the Prime Minister for all citizens, including those who did not vote for him. “Even after 11 addresses, he still doesn’t grasp that he represents everyone, not just his supporters,” Jha noted.
He criticised PM Modi’s narrow approach, stating that even polite dialogue can feel awkward if not handled properly. Jha added that PM Modi’s mention of a secular civil code is a process that requires genuine commitment, which he feels is lacking.
“Every time we expected him to have a big heart, we have been disappointed. Even a polite conversation can seem awkward if it is held impolitely. Whether the statement on Viksit Bharat, saying that some people want destruction, this is a political speech,” said Jha.
“Today he talked about a secular civil code. Secularism is a process, it has to be imbibed. Every time we expect that the PM will give up a narrow mindset and have a broad-minded approach, he disappoints,” Jha added.
In his speech, Prime Minister Modi made a strong case for a uniform civil code, asserting that a “secular civil code” is essential to replace the current “communal” one.