PM Modi Calls for Identifying and Defeating Enemies of India
Addressing Vijaya Dashami celebrations in New Delhi, the Prime Minister draws inspiration from Lord Ram’s ideals of truth, compassion and righteousness, stressing unity, public participation and national welfare.
NEW DELHI, Oct 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday urged citizens to embrace a ‘Nation First’ pledge and work collectively to counter forces that, he said, undermine India’s national honour, promote social divisions and show hostility towards the country’s cultural heritage.
Addressing Vijaya Dashami celebrations in the national capital, Modi invoked the ideals of Lord Ram, emphasising the triumph of truth over falsehood and righteousness over tyranny. He said the festival represented India’s enduring commitment to justice, harmony and the defeat of terror.
“Everyone should adopt a ‘Nation First’ pledge to jointly identify and defeat the enemies of Maa Bharati, specifically forces that harm national honour, divide society, and harbour hatred toward Indian culture,” the Prime Minister said. He added that standing firmly with truth and humanity would ultimately lead to victory.
His remarks came amid political tensions over protests by opposition parties, including the Cockroach Janta Party, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The BJP has alleged that the demonstrations, held in New Delhi and other parts of the country, were influenced by foreign forces opposed to India’s progress.
Recalling the challenges faced by Lord Ram, Modi said he never abandoned truth or moral principles despite enduring hardships. Referring to Sanskrit verses depicting Lord Ram’s composure during both his coronation and exile, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of remaining committed to righteousness in changing circumstances.
“Lord Ram established benchmarks of mercy, compassion, love, and harmony,” he said.
Modi described the continuation of Lord Ram’s legacy as central to India’s cultural and spiritual identity. He said the ideals associated with the epic figure represented not merely religious celebrations but also the country’s enduring belief in justice, courage and the ultimate triumph of truth.
The Prime Minister also cited Lord Ram’s determination during the journey towards Lanka, pointing out that even formidable obstacles could not weaken his resolve.
“The ocean lay ahead and Lanka was far, but the resolve was firm,” Modi said, explaining how Lord Ram brought people together, encouraged collective participation and mobilised available resources to achieve what appeared impossible.
Drawing lessons from the episode, Modi outlined the importance of self-confidence, effective resource management, collective effort and unwavering dedication to a goal. He said these principles remained relevant to India’s efforts to fulfil public aspirations and advance national development.
The Prime Minister stressed that public welfare should be driven by people’s participation and collective strength. He urged citizens to draw inspiration from Lord Ram’s life while working towards a society founded on compassion, unity and responsibility.
The address combined a call for national unity with a broader message about preserving cultural values and overcoming challenges through determination and collective action.
