Independence Day 2023 Live Updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day. In a departure from his usual addresses, Modi referred to his fellow citizens as "parivarjan" or "family members."
Before commencing his speech, the Prime Minister paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat and unfurled the tricolour from the Red Fort.
Around 1,800 special guests had been invited for the grand event, including sarpanches, Khadi workers, nurses, primary school teachers, and fishermen.
PM Modi said that corruption, dynasty, and appeasement are the three main problems that the country faces today.
Modi also expressed solidarity with Manipur, saying that the nation stands with the conflict-torn state during this difficult time.
Narendra Modi delivered his 10th speech as Prime Minister from the Red Fort – as many times as former PM Manmohan Singh.
Rahul Gandhi wished the public on Independence Day through a note on social media titled, 'Bharat Mata: The Voice of Every Indian'.
The Centre has set up 'selfie points' across Delhi, from where people can take pictures on Independence Day.
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India Has Capability To Become 'Vishwa Guru': JP Nadda
While extending his greetings on Independence Day, BJP President JP Nadda said that India has the capability of becoming a 'vishwa guru' (world leader)
"Today we have demography, democracy & diversity & they have the capacity to fulfill the country's dreams. This country has the potential to give numerous opportunities to the people. This shows that the country can become vishva guru," he said.
He also praised PM Modi's Independence Day speech, saying that it outlined a roadmap for India to become a developed country by 2047.
'Rights of People in Delhi Taken Away': Kejriwal's Dig at Centre During I-Day Event
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took a dig at the Centre over the Delhi services Bill while speaking at an Independence Day event in the city.
"The rights of the people of Delhi were taken away by a law. People are asking me how will I work now? Today, I assure the people of Delhi that the work will continue irrespective of whoever wants to take away the power. Free electricity will continue, and good education, and free travel for women will continue. The speed might reduce but the work will go on," he said.
'India Enjoys Well-Earned Respect in the World': Vladimir Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu on Independence Day, saying that the country enjoys "well-earned respect" on a global scale.
"Your country has achieved universally acknowledged success in economic, scientific and technical, social and other fields. India enjoys well-earned respect on the world arena and plays important constructive role in the international affairs." Putin said, as per a statement released by the Russian government.
PM's Praise for Supreme Court & Chief Justice's Reaction Goes Viral
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud's reaction to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's praise for the Supreme Court during the latter's Independence Day speech has gone viral on social media.
During his speech, PM Modi had lauded the top court for ensuring that their judgments are translated into regional languages.
"I thank the Supreme Court of India. The Supreme Court has said the operative part of the judgments will be made available in the language of the party who has come to the Court. The importance of mother tongue is increasing today," Modi had said.
Reacting to the praise, Chandrachud was seen folding his hands in a gesture of gratitude.
Modi's comments gain significance in the backdrop of a law being introduced during the recently concluded Monsoon Session which aims to replace the Chief Justice from a panel to appoint Election Commissioners.
It also comes at a time when the Centre and the apex court are at loggerheads over the collegium system for the appointment of judges.