Addressing a Raksha Bandhan programme at his Bhabanipur assembly constituency in south Kolkata, Adhikari spoke about patriotism, the state’s contribution to the freedom struggle and the sacrifices of freedom fighters.
He also raised the issue of what he described as attempts to weaken the country from within.
“Our armed forces deal with outside enemies. The Indian Air Force entered their homes and wiped out their name and identity. But there are many people within the country itself who are anti-national,” he said.
Expressing his displeasure over slogans demanding “Azadi” in Kolkata and references to Kashmir, Adhikari said, “It pains me when Azadi slogans are raised on the streets of the city. What is this Azadi for? The country became independent long ago.”
He then referred to Jadavpur University and questioned the writing of ‘Red Salute Kishanji‘ on its walls.Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma blames Congress for delay in implementing Uniform Civil Code
“It pains me when ‘Red Salute Kishanji’ is written on the walls of Jadavpur. What are you teaching the new generation? Who is this Kishanji? One who demanded the country’s partition. Kishanji, who did not accept the Constitution,” Adhikari said.
Adhikari said the Maoist leader had called for a boycott of elections and did not accept the Constitution.
He also questioned opposition to the complete rendition of ‘Vande Mataram‘ and alleged that some people were working against the country from within.
“Why is there an objection to the complete Vande Mataram? Those who attack from within must take a pledge on this Raksha Bandhan to clean them out like household garbage,” he said.
Later, Adhikari joined a procession through the area with a drum and took part in a ‘kirtan’ in front of TMC party supremo and former Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s residence. Senior party leaders and others accompanied him.
