On Constitution Day, Modi pledges a ‘befitting reply’ to terror organisations challenging India’s security, while recalling the tragic 26/11 Mumbai attacks

In a powerful speech on Constitution Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, while also warning terrorist groups that India will not tolerate any threats to its security. Speaking at the Supreme Court, Modi assured the nation that all such organisations would face a “befitting reply” for their actions.

The prime minister’s comments come as the country remembers the tragic events of 2008, when 10 terrorists from the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba launched a series of coordinated attacks across Mumbai. These included high-profile locations such as the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Oberoi Trident Hotel, CST Railway Station, and Nariman House. The attack resulted in the loss of 166 lives, with more than 300 others injured in what remains one of the deadliest terror assaults on Indian soil.

“We cannot forget that today marks the anniversary of the horrific terror attack in Mumbai. I pay my homage to all those who lost their lives,” Modi said during his address. He continued, “I also want to reiterate the country’s resolution – all those terrorist organisations challenging the security of India will receive a befitting reply.”

The 26/11 attacks remain a painful chapter in India’s history, and Modi’s address highlighted the ongoing commitment to justice and national security. His vow to counter-terrorism was further underlined by his assertion that India would never bow down to terror groups that attempt to destabilise the country.

In addition to addressing national security, Modi also invoked India’s Constitution, reflecting on the strength and resilience of the democratic framework laid out by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The prime minister noted that the values enshrined in the Constitution were especially significant in the context of Jammu and Kashmir, where, for the first time, Constitution Day was being celebrated following the abrogation of Article 370.

Modi’s speech also took a retrospective turn, as he recalled the 1975 Emergency imposed by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He emphasised how the Indian Constitution had withstood the test of time and challenges to democracy, ensuring that the country continues to move forward with unity and stability.

“In the face of adversity, our Constitution has stood as a pillar of strength,” Modi remarked. “Today, in Jammu and Kashmir, Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Constitution is fully implemented, reflecting the values of democracy and justice that are central to the Indian ethos.”

The prime minister highlighted various achievements in India’s social infrastructure, noting that the provision of tap water to homes across the nation was a significant milestone, something that had been lacking for decades after independence. He also reminded the audience that the original copy of the Indian Constitution includes symbolic images of Lord Ram and Mother Sita, underscoring the importance of Indian culture and human values in shaping the nation’s policies.

“The images of our revered figures in the Constitution remind us of the human values that form the bedrock of today’s India,” Modi said, linking cultural heritage to the nation’s modern governance.

Modi concluded his speech by reinforcing the sentiment of ‘nation first,’ which he stated would ensure that the Constitution remains relevant for generations to come. “The spirit of ‘nation first’ will keep the Constitution alive for many centuries,” he declared, rallying the country to continue honouring its democratic principles and heritage.

As India continues to grapple with challenges, both internal and external, Prime Minister Modi’s address on Constitution Day served as a powerful reminder of the country’s commitment to justice, security, and the values that unite it.