Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday used the occasion of Somnath Amrit Mahotsav celebrations to attack the opposition over what he called its “appeasement” policy.
The Prime Minister invoked the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple, referring to the alleged resistance it faced during the tenure of Congress leader and then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Modi said that the issue of national self-respect has often become a topic of political contention in the country. “In our country, politics are still played out even on matters of national self-respect. Somnath herself is a prime example of this,” Modi said while addressing a rally in Gujarat’s Gir district.
Example Modi Sumanth
Referring to the reconstruction of the temple after independence, Modi said it was among the first major tasks undertaken by the country, and credited Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Rajendra Prasad for driving the efforts.
“After our independence, one of the first duties undertaken was the restoration of the Somnath Temple. That is why Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr. Rajendra Prasad devoted such enormous effort to this cause,” he said.
“However, we all know how much opposition he had to face from Jawaharlal Nehru,” the Prime Minister said, taking a swipe at Nehru.
He further said that “such forces are still active” in the contemporary era, reiterating the BJP’s long-standing allegations of appeasement policies against opposition parties.
Modi compares it with Ayodhya temple
Comparing the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, PM Modi said, “We have witnessed this even during occasions like the construction of the Ram temple. We have seen how the construction of the Ram temple faced opposition.”
He added: “We must remain vigilant against such a mentality. We must move forward by combining development and heritage.”
“It was Sardar Sahab’s willpower that, despite facing such fierce opposition, he remained steadfast in his resolve regarding Somnath. As a result, the temple was rebuilt, and the nation got rid of the centuries-old stain,” the Prime Minister added.
The Prime Minister also said: “There are countless examples around the world where foreign invaders have destroyed sites intrinsically linked to the nation’s identity. However, whenever the people of those nations are given the opportunity, they unite to reclaim their identity and restore their national prestige.”
The Prime Minister issues a commemorative stamp and a commemorative coin
As part of the celebrations, Modi issued a commemorative stamp and a commemorative coin to mark the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction of Somnath Temple, and highlighted the spiritual and cultural importance of the temple.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister also held a roadshow in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district before participating in the Somnath Amrut Mahotsav celebrations dedicated to Lord Shiva.
(With agency inputs)
