PM Modi Pays Tribute to Veer Savarkar in France: Shiv Sena Praises, Congress Condemns
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Modi's tribute to Veer Savarkar during his France visit has sparked diverse reactions in India, with Shiv Sena supporting the recognition of the freedom fighter, while Congress criticized the move, raising questions about the BJP's commitment to Savarkar.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi honors Veer Savarkar in France.
- Shiv Sena (UBT) welcomes the tribute.
- Congress expresses strong opposition.
- Debate around Savarkar's legacy and political implications.
- International legal dispute arose from Savarkar's escape attempt.
New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recognition of Veer Savarkar during his trip to France has ignited significant responses back in India, with Shiv Sena (UBT) applauding the acknowledgment of the esteemed freedom fighter while Congress has criticized the action.
During his time in Marseille, PM Modi also recognized the city's crucial role in Savarkar's bold escape attempt from British detention and commended his contributions to India's freedom struggle.
"In India's pursuit of freedom, this city carries immense importance. It was here that the illustrious Veer Savarkar made a brave attempt to escape. I extend my gratitude to the people of Marseille and the French activists of that era who advocated for his non-extradition to British authorities. The courage of Veer Savarkar continues to motivate future generations!" PM Modi expressed on X.
While Congress vehemently opposed PM Modi's statements, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi endorsed the acknowledgment, asserting that Savarkar's contributions to India's independence should remain free from political controversy.
In a conversation with IANS, Chaturvedi stated, "Veer Savarkar played a pivotal role in our nation's struggle for freedom. His escape attempt from French territory while under British captivity showcased his unwavering commitment to the country. If he is to be honored, politics should not intrude on it."
Nevertheless, she questioned the BJP's dedication to Savarkar, highlighting the party's consistent neglect of Shiv Sena's long-standing request to honor him with the Bharat Ratna.
"Why does the BJP celebrate Veer Savarkar only when it is politically advantageous for them but conveniently forgets him later? Why hasn’t he received the Bharat Ratna?" she inquired, criticizing the ruling party.
The Rajya Sabha MP also remarked that although several freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Veer Savarkar, held differing ideologies, their unified objective was solely to expel the British and liberate India from colonial oppression.
Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut also endorsed PM Modi's tribute, asserting, "There is nothing inappropriate about the Prime Minister commemorating the location from which Veer Savarkar attempted his escape. It is a source of pride for us all. Questioning Veer Savarkar is unjust. While individuals may possess varying ideologies, he was a revolutionary and a fearless freedom fighter."
Conversely, Congress leader Udit Raj has rigorously criticized PM Modi for extolling Savarkar.
In a post on X, Raj stated, "If PM Modi truly wished to remind the world from Marseille about Indian freedom fighters, he should have invoked the names of Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Gandhi ji, and many others -- not Savarkar, who collaborated with the British."
In a further critique, Raj commented, "Savarkar evaded capture at Marseille only to be recaptured. What message is PM Modi trying to convey? That Indians are cowards? Savarkar also mobilized people to enlist in the British Army."
Veer Savarkar was apprehended in London in 1910 concerning the Nasik Conspiracy Case. While being transported to India by ship, he leaped into the sea near Marseille and swam to the French shore despite being fired upon by British guards. However, he was recaptured by British authorities on French soil, leading to an international legal conflict at The Hague. This incident drew global attention to the Indian independence movement.
