PM Modi Reveals Plans for Modi 3.0 in Hard-Hitting Interview

In Short

• PM fields questions on the Hindu-Muslim narrative to unemployment issue
• Says readying a plan not for the first 100, but 125 days
• Reveals why he doesn’t hold press conferences

In the most comprehensive interview of this election season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tackled pressing issues and laid out his plans for the first 125 days of a potential third term.

Speaking with four top editors of the India Today Group—Rahul Kanwal, Anjana Om Kashyap, Sudhir Chaudhary, and Shweta Singh—PM Modi addressed a range of topics, from constitutional changes and unemployment to his stance on communal politics and his vision for India’s future.

During the interview on India Today TV, PM Modi dismissed allegations that the BJP aims to alter the Constitution or remove reservations.

He pointed out historical instances where the Constitution was attacked and reaffirmed his commitment to its foundational principles.

He also addressed the contentious issue of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), using Goa as an example to refute claims that it promotes uniformity in lifestyle.

PM Modi revealed that his administration has seized and returned Rs 17,000 crore from corrupt individuals to their victims, and he is working on legislation to further this effort.

He expressed confidence in his party’s return to power, emphasizing plans for the first 125 days, with 25 days dedicated to youth initiatives.

On the election campaign, PM Modi explained that he instructed BJP members to work for the party’s symbol, the lotus, even before candidates were declared.

He highlighted the symbolic resilience of the lotus, which blooms amid mudslinging.

He also commented on the importance of voting in democracy, criticizing the tendency to view elections through a narrow lens of victory and defeat.

PM Modi stressed that elections are a platform for communicating directly with citizens and strengthening democracy.

Addressing accusations that the Election Commission favors the BJP, PM Modi defended the commission’s independence, noting its historical continuity and the changes under his government.

He also countered criticisms regarding the functioning of central investigative agencies, particularly the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which he claimed has become more effective since 2014.

PM Modi refuted the narrative that his government practices politics of polarization. He argued that his opposition to practices like triple talaq is often misconstrued as anti-Muslim.

He blamed the opposition for communal agendas and defended his actions as efforts towards true secularism.

The Prime Minister shared a poignant moment, revealing his attempt to mediate during the Gaza conflict by requesting Israel to halt bombings during Ramzan.

This gesture, he said, was not publicized, underscoring his commitment to peace.

PM Modi discussed the BJP’s ambitious “400 paar” slogan for the Lok Sabha elections, explaining it emerged from grassroots sentiments.

He emphasized that his goal is to exceed the 400-seat mark, building on the NDA’s current strength.

Finally, PM Modi explained why he doesn’t hold press conferences, attributing it to the changing role of media and the availability of various communication channels.

He reassured that he has never refused interviews and prefers direct communication.

In this exclusive interview, PM Modi not only provided clarity on numerous contentious issues but also outlined his administration’s priorities, offering a detailed vision for Modi 3.0.