New Delhi, India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has characterized Leftist political ideology as “retrograde,” asserting that it has diminished in influence. His remarks coincided with an acknowledgment of BJP Member of Parliament C. Sadanandan Master’s maiden address in the Rajya Sabha. Modi commended Master for his bravery, following a life-altering attack alleged to have been perpetrated by supporters of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) over thirty years ago.
During his speech on February 2, Master prominently displayed his prosthetic legs to underscore the violent nature of the attack. The display stirred emotional responses in Parliament and across the country, prompting Modi to highlight the severe implications of such actions in a democratic society. “Your bravery is well recognized in Kerala and beyond, but when you revealed your artificial legs, it startled people in Parliament and across India. It is hard to comprehend how a dedicated teacher could be subjected to such violence by followers of an outdated ideology,” Modi stated.
He further noted the shrinking presence of this “retrograde ideology,” emphasizing that Master’s proud position in Parliament stands in stark contrast to the mockery faced from some members of the opposition. Without naming specific Leftist parties, Modi expressed his disapproval of the behavior displayed by certain lawmakers during Master’s address, dismissing it as below acceptable standards.
Modi also reflected on the current political landscape in Kerala, emphasizing the exhaustion among voters regarding the two dominant political alliances, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Left Democratic Front (LDF), amid electoral preparations. He remarked on the BJP’s progress in the state, while acknowledging its status as a distant third party.
Recalling his recent visit to Thiruvananthapuram, Modi expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic welcome he received, especially from the younger demographic. “The presence of young people during my visit was encouraging and indicates that the residents of Kerala are responding positively to our vision of a developed Kerala,” he noted. He expressed confidence that the state’s populace would benefit from the newly proposed budget and its extensive provisions across varied sectors.