Nation rallying against corruption, dynasty and appeasement, echoing sentiments of "Quit India" movement: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks before during foundation stone laying for redevelopment of 508 railway stations via video conferencing, Sunday, Aug 6, 2023. PTI Photo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during an event to inaugurate the redevelopment of 508 railway stations across the country via video conferencing, accused the opposition of indulging in "negative politics." He remarked that the nation is now rallying against corruption, dynasty, and appeasement, echoing the sentiment of the "Quit India" movement.

In his address, Modi alleged that a certain faction of the opposition is adhering to a principle of obstructionism, neither contributing nor allowing others to contribute.

Modi highlighted the construction of a modern Parliament building, stating that even this development faced opposition from a section of the political spectrum.

"Even after 70 years, they failed to erect a war memorial for our martyrs, yet they shamelessly opposed its construction when we undertook it," Modi asserted.

He pointed out the "Statue of Unity" dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as a source of national pride, emphasizing that though certain parties mention India's first home minister during elections, their prominent leaders have not paid homage at the statue.

Modi criticized the opposition for engaging in "negative politics," underlining his administration's commitment to "positive politics" focused on development.

"Inspired by the Quit India Movement, the entire nation is now declaring 'quit India' to corruption, dynasty, and appeasement," Modi declared.

He emphasized that India's global standing has risen significantly, attributing it to his government's majority mandate and its resolve to tackle challenges head-on.

"India, on its path to development, is at the threshold of a new era. With renewed energy, inspiration, and determination, a new chapter is unfolding in the history of Indian Railways," Modi stated while inaugurating the redevelopment project for the 508 railway stations.

Also read: Dhoot told Chanda Kochhar's husband she would 'land up sharing room with Indrani': Chargesheet in ICICI Bank loan fraud case

These stations are distributed across 27 states and union territories, with Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan each having 55, Bihar with 49, Maharashtra with 44, and West Bengal with 37 stations, among others, according to the Prime Minister's Office.

The comprehensive redevelopment, valued at Rs 24,470 crore, aims to enhance passenger amenities and facilitate efficient traffic circulation, inter-modal integration, and proper signage. The station designs will draw inspiration from local culture, heritage, and architecture.

The PMO noted that Modi has consistently emphasized high-quality public transport and identified railways as a favored mode of travel for citizens. As part of this vision, the 'Amrit Bharat Station Scheme' was initiated to redevelop 1,309 stations. The foundation stone for the redevelopment of 508 stations was laid by the prime minister under this initiative. (PTI)