Mumbai, September 13, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said dissent and open debate are essential to a vibrant democracy, asserting that the Narendra Modi government does not believe in imposing an Emergency to suppress opposing views.
Addressing a press conference, Shah said people in a democracy would naturally hold different opinions and should have the freedom to express them. He contrasted the BJP-led government’s approach with that of the Congress, saying the present administration prioritises dialogue, engagement and consensus-building.
“We live in a vibrant democracy. People naturally hold diverse views on various issues, and expressing those opinions is essential,” Shah said.
Responding to questions on recent Gen Z-led student protests and public unrest, he maintained that democratic dissent must be respected while stressing that national security would remain a priority. Shah also reiterated the government’s position that illegal immigrants would be identified and deported.
The Home Minister also announced the NDA-led Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, to be held nationwide from September 17 to October 17 to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s completion of 25 years in public office, first as Gujarat Chief Minister and subsequently as Prime Minister.
Shah said the month-long campaign would feature a 12-point programme covering development and public outreach at the block and taluka levels. It will include the Seva Setu Abhiyan for saturation of central welfare schemes, blood donation drives, Anganwadi-focused initiatives, Namo Seva outreach, Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra and cultural programmes.
He also highlighted initiatives and achievements under the Modi government, including direct benefit transfers, PM-Kisan support for farmers, Ujjwala connections, the Lakhpati Didi programme, railway expansion, the abrogation of Article 370, development of the Ram Mandir and Kashi Vishwanath corridor, and Chandrayaan-3.
Shah claimed that 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty and said India had strengthened its position globally and emerged as the world’s fastest-growing major economy.
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