PM Modi Calls for Uniform Civil Code, One Nation One Poll in Independence Day Address
In his first Independence Day address to the nation after securing a third consecutive term in office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasized the need for implementing key proposals like a “Uniform Civil Code” and “One Nation, One Poll,” underscored the importance of women’s safety, and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to taking decisive actions and initiating reforms to realize the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
“The Supreme Court has repeatedly engaged in discussions on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and has issued directives multiple times. A significant portion of the population believes—and it is true—that the current Civil Code we live by is, in fact, a form of Communal Civil Code. It is imperative that we establish a Secular Civil Code in the country; only then can we eliminate discrimination based on religion,” Modi asserted.
Delivering his longest-ever Independence Day speech, lasting 98 minutes, from the Red Fort, the Prime Minister also addressed the issue of heinous crimes against women. Referring to a recent gang rape incident at a medical college in West Bengal, he urged the state government to impose the harshest penalties on the perpetrators. “I call upon all state governments to take stringent action against those involved in rape cases. We must instill a sense of fear among criminals to deter such crimes,” he stated.
Regarding the ruling BJP’s agenda for implementing “One Nation, One Poll,” Modi invited political parties and constitutional experts to engage in discussions on the subject. He noted that frequent elections hinder development and stressed the need for sincere efforts to advance this proposal.
During India’s 78th Independence Day celebration, the Prime Minister unveiled a “blueprint” for “Viksit Bharat 2047,” emphasizing that his government possesses the political will to take bold decisions and implement reforms to make this vision a reality.
“Viksit Bharat 2047 is not just a slogan. It is not merely a topic for intellectual debate; it represents the collective resolve and aspirations of 140 crore Indians,” Modi declared, as he touched on a range of issues, including political and economic reforms, foreign policy, and the need to bring fresh talent into the political sphere.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to pursuing major reforms, noting, “Since my re-election for a third term, I have been approached by a significant number of major investors eager to invest in India. I urge all states to establish clear, investor-friendly policies and ensure a strong commitment to good governance, transparency, and robust law and order.”
Modi encouraged states to compete for investments, ensuring that the influx of investors into India remains steady and that they do not reconsider their decisions.
With this address, Modi surpassed the record of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who delivered Independence Day speeches 10 times from the Red Fort between 2004 and 2014. India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi delivered these speeches 17 and 16 times, respectively.
Taking aim at “dynastic politics,” Modi called on the youth to step forward and contribute to nation-building as part of the Viksit Bharat 2047 initiative.
“I urge one lakh young people to enter the political system, particularly those with no family history in politics. This initiative is designed to combat the evils of nepotism and casteism by infusing fresh blood into India’s political landscape,” Modi stated.
“We aim to bring new energy into politics to eliminate dynastic politics and caste-based politics,” he added.
The Prime Minister began his speech by paying tribute to the countless individuals who sacrificed their lives and fought for India’s independence. “The nation is forever indebted to them,” he said.
Expressing concern over the increasing frequency of natural disasters and their impact on people, Modi noted that the surge in such events is alarming and offered condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.
Addressing recent developments in neighboring Bangladesh, Modi expressed hope that the situation would stabilize soon and reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development journey. “India’s primary concern is the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. We remain committed to the policy of peace and wish for our neighboring countries to pursue prosperity and tranquility,” he emphasized.
Concluding his 98-minute address, Prime Minister Modi assured the nation that during his third term, he would work three times harder, pledging, “We will work around the clock to make Viksit Bharat by 2047 a reality.”
