THE NEWS FREEDOM
VARANASI, FEBRUARY 23
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Opposition alliance on Friday, cautioning against forces opposing the welfare of dalits. He accused such individuals of engaging in dynasty politics under the guise of caste politics. Modi emphasized the need to eschew the negative mentality of casteism and embrace the positive teachings of Sant Ravidas.
Addressing the Sant Guru Ravidas Janmasthali temple in his Varanasi parliamentary constituency on the occasion of Sant Ravidas’s 647th birth anniversary, PM Modi highlighted India’s historical tradition of the emergence of saviors during times of need. He praised Sant Ravidas for his role in societal independence and bridging social divides, condemning untouchability, classism, and discrimination. Modi stressed that Ravidas ji’s teachings transcend ideologies and religions, belonging to all and being revered by various communities.
महान संत गुरु रविदास जी के संदेशों को अपनाकर आज का भारत विकास पथ पर तेजी से अग्रसर है। वाराणसी में उनकी 647वीं जयंती के अवसर पर एक समारोह को संबोधित कर रहा हूं। https://t.co/FeP1aQIKW9
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 23, 2024
Highlighting Sant Ravidas’s emphasis on equality and cohesion, the Prime Minister underscored the government’s commitment to prioritize deprived and backward communities. He detailed various government initiatives aimed at inclusive development, including free ration schemes benefiting millions, extensive toilet construction under the Swachh Bharat Mission, and the Jal Jeevan Mission providing piped water to millions of households. PM Modi also mentioned financial inclusion efforts through Jan Dhan Accounts and the Direct Benefit Transfer system, which has facilitated benefits such as the Kisan Samman Nidhi for dalit farmers and the Fasal Bima Yojana.
PM Modi noted a significant increase in scholarships for dalit youth since 2014 and highlighted financial assistance provided to dalit families under the PM Awas Yojana. He expressed satisfaction that the present government is advancing the teachings and ideals of Sant Ravidas ji while upholding the principle of ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’ (Collective Efforts, Inclusive Growth).