PM Modi Reflects on Early Life, Gujarat Riots, and Global Events in Podcast Interview

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent podcast interview, spoke on a range of issues, including his early life, his association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the 2002 Gujarat riots, and global events that shaped India’s security landscape.

A Childhood of Struggles and Finding Purpose in RSS

PM Modi recalled his humble beginnings, describing his childhood as one of extreme poverty. He recounted how he collected used chalk in school to polish his white canvas shoes. Reflecting on his journey, he credited the RSS for giving him a sense of purpose and shaping his values.

Gujarat Riots and the Political Backdrop

Addressing the 2002 Gujarat riots, PM Modi termed the Godhra train burning incident as a “tragedy of unimaginable magnitude.” He recalled how, on February 27, 2002, while the Gujarat Assembly was in session, news broke that people had been burned alive in Godhra, leading to widespread unrest.

He refuted claims that the 2002 riots were the worst in Gujarat’s history, stating that over 250 significant riots had occurred in the state before that year. He specifically mentioned the 1969 riots, which lasted nearly six months, to emphasize that Gujarat had a long history of communal violence before he became chief minister.

“Before 2002, Gujarat frequently faced riots over trivial issues like kite-flying contests or minor bicycle collisions. The perception that these were the biggest riots ever is misinformation,” he said.

Judicial Inquiry and Political Allegations

PM Modi stated that his political opponents, who were in power at the Centre during the riots, were determined to see him punished. However, he highlighted that two separate judicial investigations found no wrongdoing on his part.

“At that time, our political opponents were in power, and they were keen to see us punished over allegations. Despite their relentless efforts, the judiciary thoroughly investigated the matter twice and found us completely innocent,” he said.

Global Events and Their Impact on India

PM Modi also spoke about the volatile global security environment leading up to the 2002 riots. He listed several major events that occurred between 1999 and 2002, including:

• December 24, 1999: The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814, which was diverted to Kandahar, Afghanistan.
• 2000: The terrorist attack on Delhi’s Red Fort.
• September 11, 2001: The 9/11 attacks in the U.S., which changed global security dynamics.
• October 2001: The terrorist attack on the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.
• December 13, 2001: The attack on India’s Parliament.

PM Modi argued that such a tense environment made the situation in Gujarat more fragile, and even a small spark could lead to widespread unrest.

Taking Charge as CM Amid Crisis

He also recalled that he had only recently taken over as Gujarat’s chief minister on October 7, 2001, and had to navigate the state through an extremely difficult period.

“The months leading up to the riots were marked by major terror attacks and global tensions. In such an atmosphere, unrest can escalate quickly,” he said.

A Podcast That Sheds Light on History

PM Modi’s latest interview has reignited debates about the 2002 riots, political accountability, and India’s security landscape in the early 2000s. As he prepares for the upcoming 2025 general elections, the prime minister continues to reflect on his journey—from his early struggles to leading India on the world stage.

Follow us on Twitter, Google News, and Instagram and like us on Facebook for the latest updates and exciting stories.