In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi subtly warned India’s adversaries that the rise of Bharat should not be seen as a threat to global peace and stability, urging them to refrain from targeting India. He firmly stated that while these adversaries—whether state or non-state actors—might attempt to slow down India’s progress with their schemes, India is prepared to confront these challenges head-on.
On the 78th Independence Day, PM Modi expressed concerns about the deteriorating global situation and highlighted violence against Hindus and other minorities following the Islamist coup in Bangladesh. He indicated that India faces significant external threats beyond its internal challenges, pointing to efforts by non-state actors to destabilize the country through financial means and communal discord. “We are a land of Buddha, not a land of war,” he remarked, emphasizing that India’s rise is beneficial for the world as the country has never promoted war or violence, even when it was a developed civilization.
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Regarding the Indian economy, PM Modi reiterated his commitment to making India the world’s third-largest economy, following the US and China. He also expressed concern over potential opposition from global adversaries who might exploit domestic communal and caste divisions to hinder India’s growth. Additionally, he addressed domestic critics who, in his view, have been dismissive of India’s rapid advancements over the past decade.
PM Modi also expressed worries about global instability, noting the potential for direct conflict involving Iran and its proxies in Lebanon, Yemen, and Gaza, along with the ongoing Ukraine war. He highlighted increasing cross-border terrorism from Pakistan in Jammu and the provocative actions of Western powers supporting Khalistani forces in Canada, the US, and the UK, which are impacting Punjab and northern India. The Prime Minister suggested that Anglo-Saxon powers and Pakistan are contributing to the radicalization of the Sikh community, particularly in Canada and the UK, for electoral gains.
By referencing surgical strikes and the Balakot strikes, PM Modi not only commended the Indian security forces but also subtly signaled India’s readiness to retaliate against terrorism targeting the country.
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