Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation during the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations near the Statue of Unity in Gujarat’s Ekta Nagar on Friday, invoked Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision for a united India and reiterated that the first Home Minister had wished to integrate the entirety of Kashmir with the country.
According to Modi, while Sardar Patel successfully unified more than 550 princely states after Independence, his desire to fully integrate Kashmir could not materialize because then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru did not permit it.
“Sardar Patel believed in not just writing history, but in creating it,” Modi said, adding that the division of Kashmir, its separate Constitution, and flag were the result of “Congress’ historic mistake,” which India paid for over decades.
Emphasizing Patel’s commitment to national unity, Modi said, “The idea of One India, Excellent India was supreme for him. His greatest joy came from serving the nation.” He called on citizens to uphold this legacy of dedication and unity.
Fight Against Infiltration & Naxalism
Prime Minister Modi also issued a strong message on national security:
“On Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, we should pledge to remove every infiltrator from our country.”
He said infiltrators have threatened India’s demography for years, and the government is determined to root out both infiltration and Naxalism completely.
Women Leadership on Display
Before addressing the gathering, Modi reviewed the National Unity Day parade, where women officers led all contingents, including personnel from BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, and state police from across the country.
The parade showcased:
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Gallantry award-winning BSF heroes from Operation Sindoor
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Indian-bred service dogs, including the decorated Mudhol hound Riya
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A breathtaking Surya Kiran Air Force aerobatic show
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Motorcycle stunts by Assam Police
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A BSF camel contingent and cultural tableaux from various states
These displays highlighted India’s diverse strengths and unwavering unity.
In closing, Modi urged citizens to reject all ideas that weaken national integrity and to continue honoring Sardar Patel’s legacy by strengthening India’s unity and spirit.
