'I ask parents of terrorists, Maoists…': PM Modi's first Independence Day speech| Aug 15, 2014

As India prepares to celebrate Independence Day, Hindustan Times revisits Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15, 2014.

As India prepares to celebrate Independence Day, Hindustan Times revisits iconic speeches by the country’s Prime Ministers. In the fourteenth episode, we revisit Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15, 2014.

'I ask parents of terrorists…" : PM Modi's first Independence Day speech

During the speech, Modi urged citizens to rise above self-interest and put the nation first, calling for a stronger sense of national character and responsibility. He also addressed violence against women, urging parents to question their sons and teach them respect and accountability. Speaking about terrorism and Maoism, Modi appealed to youngsters to abandon violence and choose constructive paths that contribute to the nation’s progress and welfare.