Opposition criticizes Modi for promoting divisive agenda in I-Day speech
New Delhi: In a scathing critique of Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address, opposition parties have said that the Indian Prime Minister is promoting a “divisive agenda” and insulting BR Ambedkar, the architect of India’s constitution and a key figure in legal reforms.
The Congress Party was particularly vocal, condemning Modi’s remarks on the so-called “communal civil code,” which Modi described as discriminatory. During his speech from the Red Fort, Modi stated, “The civil code is actually, in a way, a communal civil code. It discriminates (among people).”
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized these remarks, saying that Modi was displaying an “unlimited capacity for malice, mischief, and maligning of history.” Ramesh emphasized that Modi’s statements were an affront to Ambedkar’s legacy, noting that Ambedkar had been pivotal in reforming Hindu personal laws in the 1950s, despite resistance from the RSS and Jan Sangh.
Communist Party of India (CPI) General Secretary D. Raja also slammed Modi’s speech as aligning with the RSS’s “sinister, divisive agenda” and failing to deliver a message that could unite and inspire India.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Manoj Jha added that Modi’s focus on a “secular civil code” reflects a narrow mindset. Jha remarked that secularism should be an inclusive process and criticized Modi for failing to adopt a broad-minded approach.
The opposition’s backlash underscores growing concerns about Modi’s approach to country’s unity and communal harmony.
