Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp critique against the Congress party on Thursday, accusing previous governments of practicing 'political untouchability' and excessively glorifying the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty while sidelining the contributions of other national heroes. He made these remarks while inaugurating the Rashtra Prerna Sthal, a grand memorial dedicated to Bharatiya Jan Sangh stalwarts, in Lucknow.
Honouring Icons Beyond One Family
The event coincided with the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Modi stated that for decades after Independence, a pervasive tendency existed to credit every national achievement, institution, and scheme to a single family. "Be it books, govt schemes, institutions, streets, roads or squares, it was all connected to the pride of one family," the Prime Minister asserted.
He contrasted this with his government's approach, claiming the BJP-led administration had freed the country from this narrow narrative. "Our govt, serving Mother India, is giving respect to her every child, to everyone’s contribution," Modi said. He emphasized that his government honors national icons across party lines, who were allegedly ignored in the past.
A Memorial of National Inspiration
The newly inaugurated Rashtra Prerna Sthal is a sprawling memorial built over 65 acres at a cost of approximately Rs 230 crore. Its centerpiece features 65-foot tall statues of three key figures: Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Syama Prasad Mookherjee, and Deen Dayal Upadhyay. The complex also includes a lotus-shaped museum that documents the life and journey of these stalwarts.
Modi used the occasion to reiterate the BJP's core narrative of merit-based recognition versus dynastic politics. He also highlighted the abrogation of Article 370 as a key achievement, saying, "BJP is proud that our govt had the opportunity to tear down the wall of Article 370."
Accusations Over Ambedkar's Legacy
Extending his attack, the Prime Minister accused the Congress of attempting to dismantle the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He asserted that the BJP government had protected and promoted Ambedkar's contributions through projects like the 'Panchteerth' circuit. Modi positioned the current BJP-led NDA government as one that is elevating the legacy of good governance to new heights at both the central and state levels.
The inauguration in Lucknow and the accompanying political rhetoric underscore the continuing ideological battle ahead of key electoral cycles, with the BJP firmly positioning itself as a party that celebrates a wider pantheon of national leaders beyond a single political dynasty.
