Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday used the Somnath Amrit Mahotsav celebrations in Gujarat to launch a sharp attack on the Opposition over what he described as “appeasement” politics. While speaking at the event in Gir, the Prime Minister referred to the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple after Independence and mentioned the opposition the effort allegedly faced during the tenure of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

Addressing the gathering, Modi said issues linked to national pride and self-respect had often become subjects of political debate in the country. “In our country, politics continues to be played even over matters concerning national self-respect. Somnath itself stands as the prime example of this,” Modi said during his speech.

The Prime Minister spoke about the rebuilding of the Somnath Temple after India gained Independence. He described it as one of the first important responsibilities taken up by the newly independent nation. Modi credited Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr. Rajendra Prasad for their role in leading the reconstruction effort and ensuring that the temple regained its place as a symbol of cultural and spiritual identity.

“Following our independence, one of the very first duties undertaken was the restoration of the Somnath Temple. That is why Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr Rajendra Prasad devoted such immense effort to this cause,” he said.

The Prime Minister then referred to Jawaharlal Nehru while discussing the resistance faced during the rebuilding process. “Yet, we all know the extent of the opposition he had to face from Jawaharlal Nehru ji," taking a swipe at Nehru, the Prime Minister said.

Modi further stated that similar forces still exist in present-day politics. Without naming any specific party, he repeated the BJP’s long-standing criticism of Opposition parties over what it calls appeasement politics. According to the Prime Minister, such thinking continues to create divisions on matters linked to heritage and national identity.

The Prime Minister also drew a comparison between the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple and the building of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. He said the Ram Temple project too had faced resistance from sections of society and politics.

“We have witnessed this even during occasions such as the construction of the Ram Temple. We have seen how even the construction of the Ram Temple faced opposition,” Modi said during the event.

Continuing his address, the Prime Minister urged people to stay alert against such a mindset. He also stressed the importance of balancing development with the protection of cultural and historical heritage. “We must remain vigilant against such a mindset. We must move forward by taking development and heritage together,” he added.

Modi also praised Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s determination in ensuring the rebuilding of the Somnath Temple despite opposition. According to the Prime Minister, Patel remained firm in his decision and helped restore a symbol of national pride.

“It was Sardar Sahab's willpower that, despite facing such fierce opposition, he remained unwavering in his resolve regarding Somnath. Consequently, the temple was rebuilt, and the nation washed away a stigma that had persisted for centuries,” the PM added.

During his speech, Modi also spoke about how several nations across the world have worked to reclaim and restore symbols connected to their history and identity after periods of foreign invasions and destruction. He said the restoration of such places often becomes a way for countries to reconnect with their heritage and national pride.

“There are countless examples across the world where foreign invaders destroyed sites intrinsically linked to a nation's identity. Yet, whenever the people of those nations had the opportunity, they united to reclaim their identity and restore their national prestige”, the Prime Minister said.

As part of the Somnath Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, Modi released a commemorative stamp and a special coin to mark the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple. He also highlighted the temple’s religious, cultural, and historical importance during the programme.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister held a roadshow in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district before attending the celebrations dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva. Large crowds gathered during the roadshow as the Prime Minister travelled through the district ahead of the main event.

The programme focused on the legacy of the Somnath Temple and its role as a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural identity. Modi’s speech, however, also carried a strong political message as he linked the temple’s reconstruction with present-day debates around heritage, nationalism, and Opposition politics.