One nation one election comming soon: PM Modi’s call to combat urban Naxalism on national unity day

New Delhi: In a powerful address on Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for a unified electoral approach under 'One Nation, One Election,' coinciding with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary in Kevadia, Gujarat. He emphasized that the initiative would streamline resources, strengthen democracy, and propel India toward development. In addition to electoral reforms, Modi reaffirmed the government’s focus on ‘One Nation, One Civil Code’ as a means of fostering equality and unity.

Advancing Sardar Patel’s vision

Addressing the spirit of national unity embodied by Sardar Patel, Modi credited the last decade as a period of unprecedented accomplishments in unifying India, promising that Patel’s legacy would inspire future generations. Highlighting Patel’s role in consolidating India post-independence, Modi remarked, “Sardar Sahib was a realist in his behavior, truthful in his resolve, humanitarian in action, and nationalist in his aim.” Patel's work, he said, serves as a guidepost for modern India’s mission of national integration and unity.

A call to confront 'urban Naxalism'

PM Modi also warned of internal forces he referred to as “urban Naxals,” whom he claimed threaten to undermine India’s stability. These agents, he alleged, mask their intentions with constitutional rhetoric but seek to divide India along ideological lines. Modi called on citizens to recognize and counteract these forces: “The Naxalism that grew in forests and armed our youth has diminished, but now we face urban Naxalism that seeks to weaken our nation from within.”

Celebrating Patel’s 150th birth anniversary

Marking the beginning of a two-year commemoration of Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary, Modi announced that all government programs would reflect Patel’s legacy of national unity. He underscored that India’s progress today embodies Patel’s dedication to a united India, despite predictions at independence that India’s unity was unsustainable.

Honoring Patel at the unity day parade

Earlier, PM Modi paid tribute at the Statue of Unity, administered the Unity Oath, and participated in the Ekta Diwas Parade. The event featured 16 marching contingents from states and central forces, special performances by the BSF and CRPF, a Hell March by the NSG, and the Indian Air Force’s ‘Surya Kiran’ flypast.