Sanatan Prabhat > Post Type > News > International News > Thanks to the citizens of Marseille who opposed the handing over of Swatantryaveer Savarkar to the British : PM Modi

Thanks to the citizens of Marseille who opposed the handing over of Swatantryaveer Savarkar to the British : PM Modi

PM Modi visits Marseille during his visit to France

Paris (France) – Prime Minister Narendra Modi, upon his arrival in the French city of Marseille on Tuesday, acknowledged its historical importance in India’s freedom struggle, recalling Veer Savarkar’s daring escape attempt and expressing gratitude to the French activists who supported him during that critical time.

French President Emanuel (left) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrive at Marseille Provence airport in Marignane, southern France, on Tuesday. PM Narendra Modi is in Marseille to inaugurate a new Consulate General of India with French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders have a series of engagements planned for Wednesday, including an expected visit to the Mazargues War Cemetery to honour the sacrifice of Indian soldiers who died fighting in the World Wars.

In a post on X, Modi wrote, “Landed in Marseille. In India’s quest for freedom, this city holds special significance. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar attempted a courageous escape. I also want to thank the people of Marseille and the French activists of that time who demanded that he not be handed over to British custody. The bravery of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!”

How did France help Swatantryaveer Savarkar ?

Marseille holds a significant place in India’s freedom struggle as it was the site where Veer Savarkar, a prominent freedom fighter, made a daring attempt to escape British custody.

As per the government website amritmahotsav.nic.in, “Veer Savarkar was arrested in London in 1910 in connection with the Nasik Conspiracy Case. When he was being taken by ship to India for trial, off Marseilles, Savarkar jumped into the sea and swam to the French coast, braving the firing from the ship.”

The website further states, “He was arrested at Marseilles by the British Police. The French government protested against this arrest on French soil to The Hague International Court. This brought Veer Savarkar and other Indian freedom fighters to prominence throughout the world.” The people of France and many leaders opposed the handing over of Savarkar to Britain. However, Britain was not bound to hand Savarkar back to France.

Editorial Perspective

Thanks to Prime Minister Modi who remembered Swatantryaveer Savarkar and thanked the citizens of France ! Please note that no Prime Minister has ever done this in 78 years of independence.

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