15 August, New Delhi: The five main takeaways from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 98-minute Independence Day speech were women’s protection and harsh punishment against criminals, the resolution of ‘One Nation One Election’, a ‘secular’ civil code, Hindus’ safety in Bangladesh, and a commitment to big ticket changes.
PM Modi’s speech at Red Fort on 78th Independence Day
1)Uniform Civil Code: The mention of BJP’s basic ideological themes, such as the unified civil code, demonstrated that PM Modi remained committed to completing pledges made in the BJP’s manifesto despite a reduced mandate in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. Youth and jobs, often regarded as the primary causes of the BJP’s dismal performance, were also key themes in PM Modi’s longest-ever Independence Day speech.
The implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is the BJP’s third major priority, following the construction of the Ram temple and the repeal of Article 370. PM Modi addressed the matter on Thursday, stating that a “secular civil code” was urgently required.
PM Modi called for an end to religion-based discrimination, saying the country has maintained a communal civil code for 75 years. “India urgently requires a secular civil code. PM Modi stated.
Earlier this year, Uttarakhand became the first state in independent India with a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Act.
UCC refers to a unified system of rules covering personal concerns such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption for all citizens, regardless of faith.
2) ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION: Simultaneous elections have also been a significant element of the BJP’s program, and Prime Minister Modi used Independence Day to promote the ‘One nation, one election’ concept. The Prime Minister asked political parties to work together to accomplish the goal of ‘One Nation, One Election’.
“Frequent elections are causing problems for the country.” Elections have an impact on policies and work. There has been discussion regarding this. One nation, one election is critical. “I appeal to political parties and those who understand the Constitution to work towards one nation, one election,” PM Modi stated.
3) WOMEN SAFETY: In the midst of public anger over the cruel rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of state governments acting on crimes against women with “utmost urgency”. Without naming the Kolkata incident, PM Modi stated that there was a need to instill fear in perpetrators of such crimes.
“Crimes against women should be investigated quickly, and those who commit such demonic acts should face severe punishment,” Modi added, calling for an immediate investigation into crimes against women.
“There is a lot of coverage when there is an incident, but there is little mention of criminals being punished. This explains why there is no fear. We need to instill terror in people who abuse women.
“Those who commit such sins should know that they will be hanged,” the Prime Minister stated.
4) BIG REFORMS: Despite the BJP’s failure to achieve a majority on its own and its rise to power with the support of allies, PM Modi made it clear that big ticket reforms would continue.
Underscoring the ‘Nation First’ credo, the Prime Minister stated that the government’s dedication to changes was not limited to editorials, but also aimed at strengthening the country.
5) WELFARE OF BANGLADESHI HINDUS: While PM Modi’s speech was mainly lacking foreign policy issues, he did mention the instability in Bangladesh, which saw the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, resulting in widespread looting and targeting of minorities.
PM Modi stated that 140 crore Indians were concerned about the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, which now has an army-backed interim administration in place.
“As a neighboring country, I understand the anxiety over what has transpired in Bangladesh. We want the government to make sure Hindus and minorities are protected there. “India always wants its neighbors to walk the path of prosperity and peace,” the Prime Minister stated.
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