PM Modi calls for unity to defeat forces dividing society

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reached out to political parties, urging all to join hands in national interest and to fulfil the aspirations of the people, amidst the government's efforts to build consensus for the passage of the delimitation-linked Women's Reservation Bill. Participating in Vijaya Dashami celebrations in the national capital, Modi called upon citizens to adopt a 'Nation First' pledge to jointly identify and defeat the enemies of "Maa Bharati". The prime minister said the forces that inflict harm on the country, the people who divide society and the mindset "that hates our culture, all these are the enemies of the nation". He said nation should reaffirm resolve to  identify the enemies of India and defeat them. Modi said that Vijaya Dashami celebrates the victory of good over evil and reminds everyone of the enduring strength of truth and righteousness. He said, Lord Ram faced many problems in his life but always stood with truth and principles. 

#WATCH | Delhi: At the #Dussehra celebrations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "May our thoughts be in harmony; may all the institutions of the nation and all political parties stand united for the national interest. We must stand united to confront the enemies of the nation. Those who seek to harm the nation’s honor, those who divide society, and those who harbor a hatred for our culture—these are the enemies of the country. Today, on this auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, we must reaffirm our resolve. We must identify the enemies of Maa Bharati and defeat them..." (Source: DD News)

— ANI (@ANI) October 20, 2026

Modi said Lord Ram taught people that the difficulties in the path cannot stop the journey. The prime minister said a nation progresses when it possesses a sense of self-respect, and its heritage plays a major role in shaping that self-respect. "That is why the country is now working to preserve its heritage and identity," he said. Modi said for centuries, Indian artefacts were looted and taken abroad, but today, the government is bringing those treasures back. "Over the past 12 years, more than 650 ancient idols have been brought back to India. India is giving its cultural centres a new identity on the world stage. Vijayadashami is the festival of victory," he said.