PM Modi Vows Strong Anti-Terrorism Measures at Jain Leader’s Centenary Event

New Delhi: On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism while outlining a vision for a sustainable and prosperous nation. Speaking at the centenary celebrations of revered Jain spiritual leader Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, Modi engaged the audience by beginning a statement, “Whoever challenges us (Jo hume chedega)…” The crowd enthusiastically completed the phrase with slogans, prompting Modi to quip, “I didn’t even say half the sentence, and you completed it.”

Jain spiritual leader Acharya Pragya Sagar praised the Modi government’s bold decisions, including the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A, the release of a new map delineating the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, and the launch of Operation Sindoor. The operation was initiated in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on May 7, which claimed 26 lives. “Though not said aloud, perhaps you were blessing Operation Sindoor,” Modi remarked to the audience.

The Prime Minister also highlighted nine key resolutions to foster a sustainable India: conserving water, planting trees, promoting cleanliness, supporting local businesses, exploring India’s cultural diversity through domestic travel, encouraging organic farming, adopting healthy lifestyles, embracing yoga and sports, and aiding the underprivileged.

Modi paid homage to Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj for his enduring contributions to Jain philosophy, including authoring works on the official Jain flag and emblem, restoring ancient Jain temples, and promoting the Prakrit language.

The Union Culture Ministry announced that the centenary of Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj will be celebrated from June 28 to April 22, 2026, with a series of cultural, literary, educational, and spiritual events nationwide. The inaugural event saw the participation of prominent Jain Acharyas, spiritual leaders, Members of Parliament, and scholars.