Prime Minister Narendra Modi lambasted the opposition coalition INDIA on Thursday for spreading falsehoods about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), emphasizing that it stands as a "guarantee by Modi to grant citizenship to those who have unwavering faith in Maa Bharati (Mother India)."
Addressing a massive gathering at Rash Mela grounds in West Bengal's Cooch Behar, Modi highlighted recent incidents in Sandeshkhali, where allegations of sexual misconduct against TMC leaders surfaced, promising that the "perpetrators of Sandeshkhali will face lifelong incarceration."
In his speech, Modi criticized opposition parties for shielding the corrupt and vowed to ensure their punishment, pledging even stricter measures over the next five years. He rebuked the INDIA bloc for neglecting marginalized communities and spreading baseless rumors about the CAA, reiterating his commitment to providing citizenship to those persecuted individuals who believe in the values of Maa Bharati.
Modi's remarks come in response to opposition parties' claims, including those of the TMC, suggesting that applying for CAA could jeopardize the citizenship status of legal residents. The CAA, whose rules were officially notified on March 13, aims to grant Indian nationality to persecuted non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who arrived in India before December 31, 2014.
Denouncing the opposition's tactics of falsehood and deception, Modi emphasized his government's determination to combat corruption and ensure justice for the underprivileged. He contrasted Congress' long-standing governance model with the BJP's developmental agenda, asserting that his administration's achievements represent just a fraction of the progress yet to come.
Responding to jibes from the opposition bloc about his family, Modi reaffirmed that all 1.4 billion Indians constitute his family, emphasizing, "The entire nation is 'Modi ka Parivar.'"
Turning his attention to the Sandeshkhali incidents, Modi criticized the state government's alleged indifference towards the victims, asserting the necessity for a BJP victory in Bengal to safeguard women against atrocities. He underscored the BJP's commitment to women's empowerment and ensuring the punishment of wrongdoers.
In a thinly veiled dig at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Modi expressed gratitude for the absence of obstacles from the state government in organizing the rally, contrasting it with past instances where hurdles were raised. He thanked Mamata Didi for allowing the event to proceed smoothly and recounted the support received from the public in the 2019 elections.
The Prime Minister emphasized his global recognition as a resolute leader capable of making tough decisions, particularly in combating corruption and terrorism, and fulfilling the aspirations of the nation.
