Out of power for long, Opposition conspiring against country, says PM Modi

The Prime Minister said in recent years, the country has experienced a significant shift. The fundamental principles and spirit of the Indian Constitution are being trampled. The sanctity of democracy is being eroded, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (November 29, 2024) accused the Opposition of conspiring against the country following their repeated failure to return to power at the Centre. He reached Bhubaneswar on a three-day visit to Odisha.

“The entire country is brimming with confidence following the election results in Maharashtra, Haryana and various byelections. Odisha set the tone while Haryana and Maharashtra followed. This highlights the BJP’s unique strength and the dedication of its cadres,” he said while addressing his supporters near Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.

In his criticism of the Opposition, Mr. Modi said, “Those who believe that power is their birth right have been out of power at the Centre for the past decade. Their frustration has turned into anger against the very people who bless the other side (BJP). Driven by this anger and insistence, they have begun conspiring against the nation, misleading citizens and steering the country in a dangerous direction.”

He said, “Their campaign of lies and misinformation, which has been running for years, has now intensified. This poses a challenge not only for BJP workers but also for all citizens who cherish the Constitution and democratic values.”

“We must remain vigilant at all times and keep people informed. Our duty is to expose falsehoods. Power-hungry individuals rely on deceit. When one lie fails, they concoct bigger ones, offering false promises even to their own followers. Their sole objective is to seize power by manipulating the public,” he maintained.

‘Spirit of Constitution being trampled’

“I have seen various shades of politics during my tenure as both CM and PM. I understand how politics works. In a democracy, ideological opposition is natural. Different perspectives on the same issue are expected, and political parties have the right to take their ideologies to the masses, helping people understand their stance. Protests and agitations, within the framework of the Constitution, are legitimate tools for parties to express their viewpoints. Such practices have existed in the past and continue today,” Mr. Modi maintained.

“However, in recent years, the country has experienced a significant shift. The fundamental principles and spirit of the Indian Constitution are being trampled. The sanctity of democracy is being eroded,” he said.

‘People have supported BJP govt.’

“While the Opposition focuses on criticising the BJP government day and night, the public has responded by coming out in support, recognising the party’s work,” he said.

Citing the change of regime in Odisha, Mr. Modi said, “Before the elections, many political analysts dismissed the BJP’s chances in Odisha, claiming the party could never emerge as a major force or form a government on its own. However, the results surprised those skeptics. The people of Odisha became aware of the achievements of the BJP-led Central government with the information reaching every household. It was the key to the party’s success.”

“I had the privilege of serving Gujarat as Chief Minister and later the nation as Prime Minister. Wherever I travel across the world, people are amazed that a nation of 140 crore people has repeatedly chosen the same government for a third consecutive term. We first came to power in 2014, were re-elected in 2019, and our victory in 2024 has further elevated India’s global standing,” he said.

Published - November 29, 2024 08:26 pm IST