A New India

The Prime Minister's residence was full of activity.

Staff moved briskly, finalizing the details for the national broadcast.

The radio team had already set up in the corner of Rohan's study.

Rohan sat at his desk, a sheet of notes before him.

He had spent the morning carefully crafting his message.

This wasn't just a speech it was a call to action, a plea to the heart of the nation.

He knew the words had to resonate deeply, not just with politicians or activists, but with every farmer, laborer, student, and citizen who would hear them.

The chief technician approached. "Prime Minister, we're ready to go live in five minutes."

Rohan nodded, folding the notes in half and setting them aside.

He would speak from the heart.

As the technicians adjusted the microphone.

Neeraj entered quietly, placing a glass of water on the desk.

"Are you sure about this, sir?" Neeraj asked softly.

Rohan met his gaze. "It's not a matter of being sure, Neeraj. It's a matter of necessity. This message needs to reach every corner of the country."

The technician gave a final signal. "We're live in three, two, one…"

Rohan leaned forward, his hands resting on the desk.

The red light on the microphone blinked, signaling that his voice was now carried across the airwaves to millions of homes.

"Fellow citizens of India," Rohan began, his voice steady yet warm, "I speak to you today not as your Prime Minister, but as a fellow Indian a citizen of this great nation, bound by the same values and aspirations as all of you."

He paused for a moment.

"We live in a land rich with history, culture, and tradition. But along with that richness, we have inherited practices that divide us. Practices that deny some of our brothers and sisters their rightful place in society. Practices that strip away dignity and perpetuate inequality."

Rohan's tone grew firmer, his voice carrying conviction. "I am speaking, of course, about untouchability a practice that has no place in a modern, free India. Untouchability is not just a social evil; it is a stain on our collective conscience. It is a rejection of the very principles on which our nation was built justice, equality, and fraternity."

He leaned slightly closer to the microphone, his voice softening. "I know that change is never easy. Traditions, even harmful ones, have deep roots. But I ask you: what is tradition if it denies humanity? What is culture if it denies dignity? If we are to honor the sacrifices made for our freedom, we must have the courage to confront and dismantle the barriers that divide us."

Rohan paused again, taking a sip of water before continuing. "Today, I want to share with you an important step we are taking as a nation. In the next session of Parliament, we will introduce the Untouchability (Offences) Act a law that will criminalize the practice of untouchability and ensure equal access to public spaces, services, and opportunities for all citizens."

His voice grew resolute, each word deliberate. "This law is not just a piece of legislation. It is a pledge a promise that no Indian will ever be denied their dignity because of their birth. It is a commitment to the ideals enshrined in our Constitution, which declares that untouchability is abolished and its practice is punishable by law."

Rohan's gaze flicked to the photograph of Sardar Patel on the wall, drawing strength from the image. "Patel Ji once said that the soul of India lives in its villages. But how can that soul thrive when it is burdened by discrimination and exclusion? This law is a step toward freeing that soul, toward creating a society where every individual can walk with their head held high."

He shifted slightly in his chair, his tone softening once more. "I understand that for many, this change may feel difficult. For generations, caste has dictated how we live, work, and interact. But let me remind you: every great step forward in history was once met with resistance. The abolition of slavery, the fight for women's suffrage, the struggle for independence all of these required courage, sacrifice, and faith in a better future."

Rohan's voice grew more impassioned. "This is our moment to show that courage. To break free from the chains of discrimination and build a society where every Indian, regardless of caste, can dream, achieve, and contribute to the greatness of this nation."

He sat back slightly, his tone steady but persuasive. "This law will not only criminalize untouchability; it will also educate and empower. Through public awareness campaigns, we will ensure that every citizen understands their rights and responsibilities. Through collaboration with local leaders and organizations, we will promote harmony and inclusion. And through strict enforcement, we will deter those who seek to perpetuate this injustice."

Rohan's voice carried a hint of urgency now. "But laws alone cannot change society. True change comes from within from the choices we make every day. It comes from the way we treat our neighbors, our colleagues, and those who are less fortunate. It comes from rejecting hatred and embracing humanity."

He leaned forward again, addressing the nation directly. "To the youth of India, I speak to you especially. You are the torchbearers of our future. It is in your hands to create a society that is not bound by the prejudices of the past. Stand up for what is right. Be the change that our nation needs."

"To the mothers and fathers listening today," he continued, "teach your children the values of equality and respect. Let them grow up in a world where caste no longer determines a person's worth."

"To our brothers and sisters who have suffered under the weight of untouchability,"

Rohan said, his voice tinged with emotion,

"know this: you are not alone. This government stands with you. Your struggles, your dignity, your rights they are not just your fight. They are the fight of every Indian who believes in justice."

He took another brief pause, his expression calm but resolute. "As I speak to you today, I am reminded of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar words to me, who said that the progress of any society is measured by the progress of its most vulnerable. If we are to call ourselves a modern, progressive nation, we must ensure that no one is left behind."

"This journey will not be easy. There will be challenges, resistance, and setbacks. But I am confident that together, as one nation, we can overcome them. Let us remember that unity is not just about geography; it is about people. It is about the bonds we share and the values we uphold."

"To every Indian listening today," he said, his voice steady, "I ask you to join me in this fight against untouchability. Let us make this law not just a legal mandate but a moral victory. Let us build an India where every citizen, regardless of their background, can live with dignity, equality, and pride."

The red light on the microphone blinked off, signaling the end of the broadcast.

Rohan leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply.

The room was silent.

Neeraj stepped in quietly, his notebook in hand. "It was a powerful speech, sir," he said. "I believe it will resonate."

Rohan nodded.