Critical
United and free: on the Prime Minister’s Independence Day speech
Prime Minister Modi’s Independence Day speech, delivered amid student protests, promised youth skill development for an AI-ready India and emphasized innovation and self-reliance. He urged big dreams and rapid execution. However, the author criticizes Modi for creating "dimagi naxals" and not fostering national unity. The article dismisses comparing pre/post-2014 achievements, highlighting India's unprecedented challenges requiring unified political will. It suggests Modi embrace diverse ideas, even from critics, instead of divisive rhetoric.
The Hindu · The Hindu · Aug 17, 2026 at 5:28 AM