Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur has echoed the sentiments expressed earlier by party candidate Kangana Ranaut, asserting that “India gained independence in 2014.”
Thakur emphasized that India achieved freedom from corruption and dynastic politics in 2014, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
Addressing reporters, Thakur stated, “We gained independence from a corrupt government. There are various forms of independence. We gained independence from corruption, the insecurities faced by the nation, from Congress, and other family-centric parties… and we aspire to achieve independence from any remaining areas as well.”
In 2022, actor Kangana Ranaut had made a controversial remark suggesting that independence was achieved through “bheek” (begging) and that real independence was only attained in 2014. Despite facing criticism for her statement, Ranaut is currently contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections as the Bharatiya Janata Party candidate from the Mandi constituency.
Thakur also highlighted the benefits received by marginalized communities through central government schemes, noting that SC, ST, and OBC communities are among the major beneficiaries. He cited initiatives such as the Kisan Samman Nidhi, PM Awas Yojana, and the expansion of medical and transportation infrastructure as evidence of transformative progress in the last decade.
Asserting the potential for further growth, Thakur proclaimed that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India could become the third-largest economy in the world. He cited statistics indicating significant advancements in various sectors, including healthcare, transportation, and economic growth, under the Modi administration.
Thakur’s remarks underscore the BJP’s narrative of progress and development under its governance, positioning Modi’s leadership as pivotal to India’s future prosperity.