Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday assured minorities in India that rights and liberty of citizens of all faiths will be protected and equal place ensured for them, comments that come against the backdrop of anti-minority campaign by Hindutva elements. In a speech at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Modi laid out his vision of inclusiveness and said cultures, traditions and religions should be used to overcome the rising tide of extremism, violence and divisions across the world.
“We have built a modern State in an ancient land, with a timeless tradition of openness and co-existence and a society of extraordinary diversity. We will defend and protect the rights and liberty of every citizen. We will ensure that every citizen of every faith, culture and creed has an equal place in our society; belief in her future; and the confidence to pursue it,” the PM said. Modi’s assurance assumes significance as there have been apprehensions among minorities following attacks on churches, minority institutions and people belonging to the minority community, in some places and the ghar wapsi campaign of Sangh Parivar outfits.
Calling climate change a pressing global challenge, Modi who arrived here on Thursday night, said his Government has set a target of adding 1,75,000 MW of clean and renewable energy in the next seven years. His remarks come ahead of a crucial UN climate change meet to be held here later this year. Modi also noted that the foundation of India’s Constitution rests on a fundamental principle of peace and prosperity of all. “The strength of the nation is determined by the joined hands of every citizen; and, real progress is measured through empowerment of the weakest,” he said.
The gathering included a large number of NRIs who shouted ‘Modi, Modi, Modi’ and ‘Vande Mataram’ to which he responded ‘Good, Good’. The PM, while outlining the steps taken by his Government for the development of the country, said: “We shall judge our progress not just by the cold statistics of growth, but by the warm glow of belief and hope on human faces. For me, it means many things”. During his 20-minute speech, Modi, who is here on a four-day visit, referred to the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and philosopher sage Aurobindo, at whose statue outside the UNESCO building he paid his respects.