New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed party members nationwide through a video message on the BJP's Foundation Day, conveying his best wishes while reflecting on the party’s ideological path, deeply rooted in sacrifice, discipline, and national service.

The Prime Minister characterized the BJP as more than a political entity, referring to it as a “mother” to its workers. He noted that this occasion is particularly emotional for party members as it allows them to express their gratitude towards the organization that has provided them a platform to contribute to the nation.

During his speech, PM Modi stated, “Nitin Nabin, the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party, esteemed leaders of the BJP family, and my dear party worker, the Bharatiya Janata Party is the only political party where we regard the organization as our mother. This is why this occasion is so emotional for all of us workers. Today, we have the chance to show appreciation to the party that has given us the honor of serving our nation. I send my warmest greetings on BJP Foundation Day to all party workers across the nation and to all citizens who support the BJP.”

While honoring the party’s founding figures and ideological torchbearers, PM Modi recalled leaders such as Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Deendayal Upadhyaya, Nanaji Deshmukh, Kushabhau Thakre, Jana Krishnamurthi, Vijaya Raje Scindia, Sunder Singh Bhandari, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L.K. Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, P. Parameswaran, and Kabindra Purkayastha, among others.

He emphasized that the party’s growth is attributed to decades of relentless efforts, perseverance, and sacrifices made by numerous workers across the country.

PM Modi expressed his special appreciation for our young President, Nitin Nabin, highlighting that this is the first Foundation Day celebration under his leadership. He conveyed that under Nabin’s guidance, the party is completely devoted to serving the nation with vigor and dedication.

Reflecting on the struggles faced during the party’s formative years, PM Modi remarked that there was a time when the BJP had limited visibility and resources. “It was once said that a BJP worker had one foot in the rail and the other in jail,” he noted, emphasizing the adversities encountered by party members.

He also addressed instances of political violence in regions such as West Bengal and Kerala, affirming that BJP workers continued their dedication to their duties with bravery and commitment, despite facing challenges. He honored those who lost their lives while working for the party.

Regarding the BJP’s electoral success, PM Modi asserted that the party’s accomplishments stem from its unwavering adherence to principles and commitment to public service. He underscored that the BJP has introduced a “nation first” approach to Indian politics, contrasting it with what he described as power-centric politics.

“We have developed a vast network of workers who are committed to serving with a spirit of selfless dedication, who have made the party’s principles the guiding ideals of their lives, and who have never compromised on their values under any circumstance. Friends, we have remained true to our values while prioritizing public service and welfare. Even when our resources were scarce and we were not in government anywhere, we maintained our commitment,” the PM stated.

Recalling the political landscape of the 1980s, PM Modi referred to the 1984 Indian general election, when the Congress party secured a substantial mandate. He argued that over time, public trust shifted towards the BJP as citizens grew disillusioned with governance that failed to meet their expectations.

“We can never forget the period of 1984 when Congress won a record number of seats. Yet, the citizens of the country witnessed how Congress, upon assuming power, was betraying the nation. During this time, the public’s trust in the BJP grew incrementally. Gradually, the BJP began winning elections, and with our rise, two distinct streams in the country’s politics became clear. One stream focused on power, while the other was dedicated to service. The politics centered around power began to decline, while service-oriented politics steadily gained public favor. Today, we take pride in having introduced the principle of ‘nation first’ into Indian politics.”

Discussing governance, PM Modi stated that the BJP has established a distinct model characterized by policy stability and fulfillment of promises. He emphasized that BJP-led alliances are built on national interest rather than merely seeking power.

On women’s empowerment, PM Modi noted that the party adopted a resolution for women’s reservation as early as 1994 in Vadodara. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and ensuring increased participation of women in politics.

Touching on significant policy decisions, the Prime Minister highlighted the abrogation of Article 370 as a landmark move towards strengthening national unity, recalling the vision of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. He also mentioned initiatives like the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ as steps towards fostering integration and uniformity across the country.

Furthermore, the PM asserted that the BJP has worked to balance development with the preservation of India’s cultural heritage. He criticized the Congress for promoting dynastic politics, while emphasizing that the BJP recognizes and honors contributions from leaders across regions and communities, including icons such as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

In conclusion, the Prime Minister once again extended his greetings to BJP workers and supporters, acknowledging their contributions to the party’s growth and reaffirming the commitment to national service.

“Once again, I extend my warmest greetings to crores of BJP workers on the party’s Foundation Day. Vande Mataram,” PM Modi remarked.