Marseille (France), February 12, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday acknowledged the historical importance of this French city in India’s freedom struggle on reaching Marseille. He said that this place has a deep relationship with freedom fighter Veer Savarkar.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Landed in Marseille. This city has a special significance in India’s freedom struggle. It was here that the great Veer Savarkar tried to escape in a daring manner. I also want to thank the people of Marseille and the French activists of that time who demanded that he (Savarkar) not be handed over to British custody. Veer Savarkar’s bravery will continue to inspire generations!”
According to the Indian government website amritmahotsav.nic.in, “Veer Savarkar was arrested in London in 1910 in the Nasik Conspiracy case. While he was being transported to India by ship for trial, Savarkar jumped into the sea near Marseille and swam to the French coast, braving the firing from the ship. He was arrested by the British police in Marseille.” The website further states, “The French government lodged a protest in the Hague International Court against this arrest on French soil. This brought Veer Savarkar and other Indian freedom fighters fame all over the world.” In Marseille, PM Modi visited the Mazargues War Cemetery along with President Macron and paid their tributes to the Indian soldiers who died in the world wars. After this, both the leaders jointly inaugurated the Indian Consulate in Marseille. After the inauguration of the Indian Consulate, PM Modi wrote on X, “A historic moment in Marseille! President Emmanuel Macron and I inaugurated the Indian Consulate in this vibrant city, marking a new chapter in India-France relations. This Consulate will serve as an important bridge, strengthening our cultural, economic and people-to-people ties.”
“Marseille’s ties with India are well known. It was an important base for Indian troops during the First World War. The city also has a deep connection with Veer Savarkar. I thank the French government and congratulate the Indian diaspora on this special inauguration,” PM Modi said.
