PM Modi Reflects on Veer Savarkar’s Legacy During Marseille Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, upon his arrival in Marseille, France, on Tuesday, underscored the city’s historical importance in India’s freedom movement. He specifically recalled Veer Savarkar’s brave escape attempt from British custody and extended his gratitude to the French activists who supported him during that critical period.

The PM is in Marseille to inaugurate the new Consulate General of India alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. On Wednesday, the leaders have several engagements, including a planned visit to the Mazargues War Cemetery to pay tribute to Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the World Wars.

On social media, PM Modi shared: “Landed in Marseille. This city holds a special place in India’s fight for freedom. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar made a bold escape. I also extend my gratitude to the people of Marseille and the French activists who fought for Savarkar’s release and prevented his extradition to British authorities. The courage of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire us all!”

He further added: “President Macron and I are in Marseille, and this visit will strengthen the bond between India and France. The opening of the Indian consulate will bolster people-to-people connections. I will also pay my respects to the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the World Wars.”

Historical Connection: Marseille and India’s Struggle for Independence

Marseille holds a significant place in the history of India’s freedom movement, as it was here that Veer Savarkar made a courageous attempt to escape British imprisonment.

According to the government’s official Amrit Mahotsav website, “Veer Savarkar was arrested in London in 1910 in connection with the Nasik Conspiracy Case. While being transported by ship to India for trial, he jumped into the sea near Marseilles, braving gunfire from British officers aboard the ship, and swam to the French coast.”

The website further notes, “Savarkar was arrested by the British police in Marseille, but the French government strongly protested this arrest, taking the matter to the Hague International Court. This action brought Savarkar and other freedom fighters into the global spotlight.”

PM Modi and President Macron’s Engagements in Marseille

PM Modi and President Macron’s visit to Marseille marks the start of a series of engagements aimed at furthering the relationship between the two nations. During their time in the city, they will visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, which is a significant international collaboration focused on advancing nuclear fusion research.

The PM is also scheduled to visit the Mazargues War Cemetery to pay homage to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during both World Wars.

PM Modi’s Address at the India-France CEO Forum in Paris

Prime Minister Modi also participated in the India-France CEO Forum, highlighting the growing economic and technological partnership between the two nations. In a post on social media, he emphasized, “The India-France CEO Forum plays a crucial role in strengthening the economic ties and fostering innovation between our countries. It’s encouraging to witness the collaboration between business leaders from both nations, which will create new opportunities and drive growth across various sectors.”

During his address, PM Modi described the forum as more than just a business gathering. “This forum represents the convergence of the brightest minds from India and France. You are embracing the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven progress. Beyond forging connections in the boardroom, you are reinforcing the strategic partnership between our two nations,” he said.

PM Modi also reflected on the shared values that bind India and France. “India and France are united not just by democratic values but by deep trust, a commitment to innovation, and a shared sense of public service. Together, we are tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” he noted.

In addition to the CEO Forum, PM Modi co-chaired the AI Action Summit in Paris with President Macron. The week-long summit culminated with a High-Level Segment attended by global leaders, policymakers, and experts in the field of artificial intelligence.