Hisar: On the occasion of B R Ambedkar's birth anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a fierce critique of the Congress party, alleging that it has marginalized Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and OBCs during its tenure in power.
While inaugurating the first commercial flight from Maharaja Agrasen Airport to Ayodhya and laying the groundwork for a new terminal, Modi claimed that the Congress has undermined the Constitution established by Ambedkar.
"Ambedkar envisioned equality, but the Congress has perpetuated the politics of vote banks," Modi stated. He emphasized that Ambedkar aimed for every impoverished individual to live with dignity and pursue their dreams, contrasting this with the Congress's alleged actions that relegated SCs, STs, and OBCs to second-class status.
Modi intensified his attack, asserting that the Congress has weaponized the Constitution for political gain and spread the detrimental influence of vote bank politics.
He pointed out that while Congress leaders enjoyed luxuries, basic amenities like tap water remained inaccessible to many villages, particularly affecting marginalized communities. "Even after 70 years of independence, only 16% of rural homes had tap water. Who suffered the most? The SCs, STs, and OBCs," he remarked.
The Prime Minister criticized Congress leaders for their failure to ensure water access for these communities during their governance, questioning their commitment to the welfare of the underprivileged.
Modi recalled the historical disrespect shown to Ambedkar by the Congress, noting that he faced electoral defeats and was marginalized during his lifetime. He accused the party of attempting to erase Ambedkar's legacy after his death.
Following the flight inauguration and terminal foundation laying, Modi highlighted the BJP-led government's focus on enhancing connectivity while also prioritizing social justice and the welfare of the poor, aligning with Ambedkar's vision.
The new terminal at Maharaja Agrasen Airport is projected to cost over Rs 410 crore and is expected to be completed within two years.
The introduction of scheduled flights from Hisar to Ayodhya twice a week, along with additional flights to Jammu, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Chandigarh, is anticipated to significantly improve Haryana's aviation connectivity.
Modi assured that more flights from Hisar to various destinations would commence soon, emphasizing his commitment to elevating the aspirations of Haryana's residents. "My promise is that even those in 'hawai chappal' will fly in an airplane. We are witnessing this promise come to fruition," he stated.
He noted that in the past decade, millions of Indians have flown for the first time, with airports being constructed in areas that previously lacked even decent railway stations.
Modi pointed out that prior to 2014, India had only 74 airports, whereas now there are over 150, taking a jab at the previous Congress administration.
He mentioned that Indian airlines have placed orders for 2,000 new aircraft, which will create numerous job opportunities in various sectors, including aviation maintenance.
The Prime Minister reiterated the BJP government's commitment to continuous and accelerated development, aiming to improve the lives of the poor, tribal communities, and women. He stated that every policy is dedicated to the principles of Ambedkar.
Modi accused the Congress of making empty promises regarding social justice, highlighting that they did not honor Ambedkar and Chaudhary Charan Singh with the Bharat Ratna.
He criticized the Congress government in Karnataka for implementing religious-based reservations in tenders, which he claimed undermined the rights of SCs, STs, and OBCs, contrary to Ambedkar's vision.
Modi asserted that the Congress's appeasement policies have also harmed the Muslim community, benefiting only a select few while leaving the majority uneducated and impoverished.
He condemned the Congress for hastily amending the Waqf law in late 2013 to secure votes, arguing that it was a significant affront to Ambedkar's legacy.
Modi challenged the Congress, questioning their sincerity towards the Muslim community and suggesting they should appoint a Muslim president if they genuinely cared.
Using the local Haryanvi dialect, Modi connected with the audience, acknowledging the state's reputation for its soldiers, athletes, and sense of community.
Reflecting on his past experiences in Haryana, he expressed fond memories from his time working for the BJP in the 1990s.
On Ambedkar's birth anniversary, Modi emphasized its significance for the nation and particularly for Dalits and marginalized groups, calling it a second Diwali for them.
He concluded by stating that Ambedkar's life and message have been a source of inspiration throughout the BJP's journey over the past 11 years.
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