Modi at Somnath: Attacks ‘Appeasers’ & ‘Dividers’ 🇮🇳

India must remain vigilant against those seeking to divide the country through appeasement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday, while highlighting the Somnath temple as a symbol of resistance against religious extremism. He also emphasized India’s economic stability and growth potential amidst global uncertainty, speaking at the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Rajkot.

PM Modi on Threats to National Unity

At a rally in Somnath, Modi accused unnamed historians and politicians of downplaying the history of religious extremism and terrorism. He stated that attempts were made to conceal the “cruel history of hatred, atrocities and terrorism” by portraying it as motivated solely by wealth.

The Prime Minister underscored the historical significance of the Somnath temple, rebuilt after centuries of attacks, and praised the valor of those who defended it, including Raval Kanhardev, Veer Hamirji, and Vegda Bhil. He asserted that Somnath’s resistance to religious terrorism is unparalleled globally.

Modi referenced past challenges faced during the temple’s renovation, including objections to former President Rajendra Prasad’s visit in 1951, and suggested that similar forces remain active today, albeit employing different tactics. “In place of swords, they are now using vile means against India,” he said.

India’s Economic Resilience

Speaking in Rajkot, Modi cited recent assessments from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and rating agencies S&P and Fitch as evidence of growing international confidence in India’s economy. S&P upgraded India’s rating outlook after 18 years, and the IMF has identified India as a key engine of global growth.

“In the face of great global uncertainty, India today stands out,” Modi stated, pointing to political stability, consistent policies, and the expansion of the neo-middle class. He highlighted India’s transformation from importing nine out of ten mobile phones in 2014 to becoming the world’s second-largest manufacturer of handsets.

Furthermore, Modi noted that India is now the largest consumer of mobile data and hosts the world’s largest real-time digital payments platform, UPI. The country also ranks among the top three in solar power generation and has emerged as the third-largest aviation market. “This Reform Express won’t halt,” Modi said, concluding with the sentiment, “Yehi samay hai, sahi samay hai (This time is the right time).”