Freedom is not only about rights, but duties, unity too: PM

New Delhi, Nov 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that Constitution Day serves as a reminder that freedom is defined not only by rights but also by duties and a collective call for unity.
His message was read out during the flag-off ceremony of the ‘Unity March’ in Karamsad, the hometown of India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, in Gujarat’s Anand district.
The Gujarat government is organising the padyatra from Karamsad to the Statue of Unity in Narmada district to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. District Collector Pravin Chaudhary read out the prime minister’s message at the event.
Congratulating the state government, Modi said padyatras have historically played an important role in India’s freedom movement by uniting people, boosting confidence, and reinforcing the spirit of togetherness.
“The sound of footsteps united society, boosted people’s self-confidence, and instilled a sense of unity in millions of hearts. Sardar Patel understood that when people walk together, differences fade away and a greater purpose takes over,” the prime minister said.
Calling it a “pleasant coincidence” that the march began on Constitution Day, Modi said the occasion reminds every citizen that liberty also carries responsibilities.
“This day reminds us that freedom is not only about rights but also about duties and a call for unity,” he said.
He added that today’s national initiatives — from Digital India and Fit India to Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and voluntary participation drives like ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ — reflect the living spirit of unity across the country.
Modi said India’s aspiration to become a developed nation by 2047 rests on the energy of the youth, public solidarity, and innovation. Expressing confidence in the ‘Unity March’, he said it would further strengthen national integration and inspire people to align their aspirations with the nation’s progress.
“I pay my respects to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel,” he added.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel flagged off the march in the presence of dignitaries including Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha. The padyatra will culminate at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar on December 5, with nearly 15,000 participants joining each day, officials said. (KINS)