Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day speech, calling it “stale, hypocritical, insipid, and troubling.” He said Modi’s praise for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) from the Red Fort was “a blatant breach of the spirit of a constitutional, secular republic” and accused the Prime Minister of appeasing the organisation to secure an extension of his tenure after he turns 75 next month.
Ramesh claimed Modi’s address recycled slogans such as Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat without delivering measurable results, citing unfulfilled promises on semiconductor manufacturing, farmer protection, and job creation. He alleged the PM presided over the erosion of constitutional institutions and ignored questions about the credibility of the electoral process.
RSS as “biggest NGO in the world”
In his speech, Modi said, “A hundred years ago, an organisation was born, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. One hundred years of service to the nation is a proud, golden chapter… In a way, RSS is the biggest NGO in the world.” He praised its dedication to “vyakti nirman” (character building) and “rashtriya nirman” (nation building).
This remark drew fierce criticism from Congress leaders, who accused the RSS of dividing people and failing to contribute to the freedom struggle. Shama Mohamed said, “This NGO produced a person called Godse who killed Bapu.” Supriya Shrinate called it “sad” that the PM spoke more of the RSS than freedom fighters. Imran Masood alleged the organisation opposed the Quit India Movement and did not hoist the national flag for 52 years.
Akhilesh Yadav and other Opposition leaders slam PM Modi
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused PM Modi of straying from secular and socialist principles, criticising the Agniveer scheme and warning of economic challenges due to US tariffs. Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal alleged the PM’s “agenda is clear, removal of the Constitution.” NCP-SCP MLA Rohit Pawar said the PM failed to address pressing domestic and international issues.
Support from BJP allies
Some leaders defended the speech. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh said it was “full of determination” and recognised contributions from all sections of society. BJP leader Dr CN Ashwath Narayan praised Modi’s stance against protectionist moves by foreign nations, arguing it safeguarded the interests of farmers, fishermen, and skilled workers.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Anil Desai supported Modi’s hardline view on Pakistan, saying peace was impossible until Islamabad stopped supporting terrorism.
The political row comes amid speculation over Modi’s leadership after September, when he turns 75, the age at which some senior BJP leaders have been sidelined. Opposition leaders suggest the PM’s RSS reference signals a closer alignment with the organisation to secure continued leadership.
Ramesh argued that Independence Day should inspire vision and candour, but instead was used for “self-congratulation and selective storytelling” while avoiding discussion of unemployment, economic distress, and inequality.
With the RSS centenary coinciding with Modi’s milestone birthday, the mention from the Red Fort has become a flashpoint.