Sun Jan 19 06:34:24 UTC 2025: ## Modi Praises Election Commission Amidst Opposition Criticism

**New Delhi, January 19, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Election Commission of India (ECI) in his monthly “Mann ki Baat” radio address, praising its use of technology to strengthen the democratic process and its commitment to fair elections. His remarks come ahead of the ECI’s foundation day on January 25th and amidst ongoing opposition accusations of pro-BJP bias.

Modi highlighted the ECI’s modernization efforts and its role in empowering citizens through technology. He urged increased voter participation to further strengthen India’s democracy. The Prime Minister’s endorsement of the ECI, particularly its use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), follows repeated opposition challenges to their integrity.

In his address, Modi also reflected on India’s democratic journey since independence, emphasizing the country’s resilience against early doubts about its viability as a democracy. He played audio clips from members of the Constituent Assembly, including Rajendra Prasad, Bhim Rao Ambedkar, and Syama Prasad Mookerjee, to underscore the values enshrined in the Constitution. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Constitution’s implementation.

Modi further celebrated the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, emphasizing the large-scale participation of diverse groups and the youth’s significant involvement. He highlighted the event’s global appeal as a source of national pride. The broadcast, held on the third Sunday of the month due to the upcoming Republic Day, concluded with a call to build an India that would make its Constitution makers proud.

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