By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – India Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke about the historical importance of Marseille, the second largest city in France, in India’s freedom struggle, recalled Veer Savarkar’s daring escape attempt and expressed gratitude to French activists who supported him during that critical time.
He was in Marseille to inaugurate the new Consulate General of India with French President Emmanuel Macron.
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!” in a social media post on X soon after arrived in Marseille from Paris,
He said, “President Macron and I reached Marseille a short while ago. This visit will witness important programmes aimed at further connecting India and France. The Indian consulate which is being inaugurated will deepen people-to-people linkages.”
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.
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 Marseille, Savarkar jumped into the sea and swam to the French coast, braving the firing from the ship.
The city of Marseille holds a special place in India’s freedom struggle, as it was here that Veer Savarkar, one of India’s freedom fighters, made a brave attempt to escape British custody.
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.”
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