Did Kerala CM Vijayan Justify Criticism of PM Modi for His I-Day Speech?
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Synopsis
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has raised serious concerns over PM Modi's remarks during the Independence Day speech, suggesting an inappropriate glorification of controversial figures, which he argues undermines the true spirit of India's freedom struggle.
Key Takeaways
- Vijayan criticized PM Modi's I-Day speech.
- He accused Modi of glorifying RSS and Savarkar.
- Vijayan emphasized the importance of true historical representation.
- He noted the RSS's historical stance against the independence struggle.
- Vijayan called for unity against sectarian narratives.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 16 (NationPress) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has voiced strong criticism against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that his address during the nation’s 79th Independence Day celebrations glorified the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and V.D. Savarkar.
Vijayan stated, “It’s entirely unacceptable to portray the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and V.D. Savarkar as pivotal figures in India’s fight for independence. To choose Independence Day to honor those who aligned with colonial forces is seen as a direct affront to the freedom struggle,” Vijayan expressed on social media.
He further highlighted that the RSS was banned following the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, and Savarkar himself was implicated in the conspiracy surrounding Gandhi’s murder.
“Linking them to the 'fatherhood of freedom' is a blatant distortion of history. PM Modi’s address, which indirectly celebrated the RSS, misused this solemn occasion. Additionally, the Union Petroleum Ministry’s choice to feature Savarkar’s image above Gandhi’s on their Independence Day greeting card is indicative of a broader agenda to rewrite our historical narrative,” Vijayan noted.
“The quest for India’s independence was a united struggle, transcending caste, creed, language, and religion. In stark contrast, the RSS distanced itself from this movement and opposed its foundational ideologies. Instead of fostering inclusive Indian nationalism, it propagated a majoritarian Hindutva vision,” he added.
Vijayan further recounted that when the Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution on November 26, 1949, the RSS’s mouthpiece, Organizer, suggested that Manusmriti should have been the guiding text instead of the Constitution. Notably, the Hindu Mahasabha led by Savarkar even boycotted the celebrations on August 15, 1947.
“Those who abandoned the freedom struggle are now trying to insert themselves into its history, overshadowing genuine martyrs, such as the heroes of the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising and the victims of the Wagon Tragedy. Those advocating for the commemoration of Partition atrocities on August 14 possess little moral authority to lecture the nation on Independence Day,” wrote Vijayan.
He concluded by asserting that any effort to supplant the legacy of humanism and unity with sectarian animosity must be collectively opposed.
Point of View
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan raises valid concerns regarding the interpretations of India's freedom struggle. While it's crucial to respect diverse historical perspectives, any narrative that aims to glorify controversial figures like Savarkar must be critically examined to ensure that the true spirit of India's independence is preserved. This discourse underscores the ongoing struggle between tradition and modern political ideologies.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main criticism made by Kerala CM Vijayan?
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan criticized PM Modi for glorifying the RSS and V.D. Savarkar during the Independence Day speech, which he deemed inappropriate.
Why does Vijayan believe this glorification is harmful?
Vijayan argues that glorifying figures like Savarkar undermines the collective struggle for independence and insults the real martyrs of India's freedom movement.
What historical context did Vijayan provide?
He pointed out that the RSS was banned after Mahatma Gandhi's assassination, and Savarkar was implicated in the conspiracy surrounding it.
What does Vijayan suggest about the RSS's role in the independence movement?
He claims that the RSS distanced itself from the freedom struggle and favored a majoritarian Hindutva vision rather than promoting inclusive nationalism.
What is Vijayan's call to action?
Vijayan urges collective resistance against any attempt to replace the legacy of humanism and unity with sectarian hatred.
