New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Opposition of engaging in "negative politics" and stated that the entire country is now rallying against corruption, dynasty, and appeasement, echoing the sentiment of 'Quit India'. Speaking at an event after inaugurating the groundbreaking ceremony for the redevelopment of 508 railway stations nationwide through video conferencing, he alleged that a segment of the Opposition is guided by the philosophy of obstructing progress both for themselves and others.
"Regrettably, within our nation, a faction of the opposition continues to refrain from taking action themselves and obstructs any actions undertaken by others. They are entrenched in this mindset," he commented.
He further asserted, "With concern for the present and future of our country, we constructed a modern Parliament building, symbolising democracy and inclusive representation of both the government and the Opposition. Yet, even this faced opposition. We initiated the Kartavya Path project, and that too faced opposition."
Referring to the Statue of Unity dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the world's largest statue, he noted that while the entire Indian populace takes pride in it, a few Opposition party leaders visited it only during elections. According to him, these parties remembered India's first home minister solely for political purposes.
"Over the course of 70 years, they failed to erect a war memorial for our martyrs. When we finally built one, they shamelessly criticised it in the open," he remarked.
"Transcending negative politics, we have embraced the task of national development as a mission, assigning it the highest priority without being swayed by vote banks and party politics," Modi said.
Discussing the Rozgar Mela initiative, wherein the Central government strives to offer jobs to one million youths, he depicted it as an illustration of an evolving India where development paves the way for fresh opportunities for the youth, thereby propelling the country's advancement.
With the approaching anniversary of the Quit India Movement on August 9, the Prime Minister underlined its historical significance in infusing renewed vigour into India's struggle for independence.
Presently, the entire nation resounds with the call to 'Quit India' in the face of vices such as corruption, dynasty, and appeasement, he declared.
"Drawing inspiration from the Quit India Movement, the nation as a whole is now resounding with 'Quit India' against every wrongdoing, proclaiming 'corruption, quit India,' 'dynasty, quit India,' 'appeasement, quit India,'" Modi said.
He also acknowledged the upcoming Partition Horror Remembrance Day, commending those who rallied after the shock and contributed to the nation's development. "This day underscores our responsibility to preserve our unity."
"Our Independence Day serves as an occasion to reaffirm our commitment to the Tricolour and our nation's progress. Similar to the previous year, we ought to hoist the tricolour at every household," he noted.
Modi underscored how his government altered public perception of taxes, leading to an increase in taxpayers due to improved amenities and enhanced quality of life.
He recalled the time when income above Rs 2 lakh attracted taxation; now, income up to Rs 7 lakh remains untaxed.
"In spite of this, the collection of income tax within the country is growing, sending a clear message that the middle class's scope is steadily expanding. He informed that this year has witnessed a 16 per cent surge in individuals filing income tax returns, signifying growing trust in the government and fostering innovation within the country," he stated.
Moreover, he highlighted the country's augmented global standing and how the government's focus is directed towards national interests.
"The global perspective on India has transformed. Two primary factors underlie this shift: firstly, Indians elected a decisive majority government after nearly three decades, and secondly, this majority government made critical decisions and consistently worked towards permanent solutions for the nation's challenges," Modi affirmed.
"India, progressing towards becoming a developed nation, stands at the threshold of the Amrit Kaal. This phase heralds fresh energy, inspiration, and resolutions, inaugurating a new chapter in the annals of Indian Railways," he concluded after inaugurating the railway station redevelopment project.
These 508 stations span 27 states and Union Territories, including 55 each in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, 49 in Bihar, 44 in Maharashtra, 37 in West Bengal, 34 in Madhya Pradesh, 32 in Assam, 25 in Odisha, 22 in Punjab, 21 each in Gujarat and Telangana, and 20 in Jharkhand, among others, as outlined by the Prime Minister's Office.
Additionally, 15 stations are situated in Haryana and 13 in Karnataka.
The redevelopment, with a budget of Rs 24,470 crore, seeks to offer modern passenger amenities while ensuring efficient traffic flow, inter-modal integration, and informative signage for passenger guidance, according to a statement by the PMO. The station buildings' design will draw inspiration from local culture, heritage, and architecture.
