PM Modi Criticizes Opposition at SRCC Centenary Celebration, Reflects on 2013 Challenges
At the SRCC centenary, PM Modi highlights past challenges and praises alumni achievements amid critiques of the 2013 government.
New Delhi, September 5 (Daily Kiran) : Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the centenary celebration of the Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) in New Delhi on Saturday. He praised the achievements of the college’s alumni while sharply criticizing the state of the country in 2013 under the previous government. Modi described that era as one marked by despair, corruption, and policy paralysis.
He noted that SRCC alumni have made significant contributions globally, stating, “The alumni of SRCC are the real ‘OGs’. They have carved their unique identities in every field.”
Recalling former Union Minister Arun Jaitley, Modi shared that Jaitley often reminisced about his time at SRCC. With a smile, he mentioned that Jaitley would frequently recount stories from their college days. Modi also highlighted that his team member, Sanjeev Sanyal, is an SRCC alumnus.
The Prime Minister emphasized that SRCC has produced distinguished personalities not only in economics but also in arts, politics, law, and the judiciary. He humorously remarked, “They may not be legends, but they sure made a splash.”
Modi reflected on the discussions surrounding his 2013 speech at SRCC, noting that many have revisited that address. He mentioned that its impact is still felt today, 13-14 years later.
During his speech, Modi warned about a “gang” that distorts his statements, urging vigilance. He recounted the grim realities of 2013, when news of Indian soldiers’ sacrifices at the Line of Control dominated headlines. The World Bank had downgraded India’s GDP growth forecast, the current account deficit reached record levels, and inflation soared to nearly 10 percent.
He pointed out that the industrial sector was in decline, corruption scandals like the helicopter deal were exposed, and bomb blasts occurred in Hyderabad. According to Modi, the country faced low growth rates, rampant inflation, and scandals, with discussions of policy paralysis prevalent everywhere. The world viewed India as one of the “Fragile Five” economies.
The Prime Minister concluded by stating that the nation was struggling on all fronts during that time, with a pervasive atmosphere of despair and hopelessness.
