On Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a statement that drew sharp criticism on social media.
Without directly naming Pakistan, Modi referred to August 14 as “Partition Horrors Remembrance Day” in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Modi wrote that the day serves as a reminder of a tragic chapter in history, when millions were displaced and endured immense suffering during the partition of 1947. He said it is also a time to honor the courage of those who bore “unimaginable loss” yet found the strength to start anew.
The Indian Prime Minister added that many affected by partition went on to rebuild their lives and achieve significant success. He called for strengthening the bonds of harmony that unite the nation.
India observes #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, remembering the upheaval and pain endured by countless people during that tragic chapter of our history. It is also a day to honour their grit…their ability to face unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 14, 2025
His remarks, however, triggered strong reactions online. One user commented, “You are now dividing people on religious grounds as well. Nothing has changed.” Another wrote, “Sir, you are also creating a Hindu-Muslim partition in the country.”
Partition Horrors Remembrance Day was introduced in India in 2021 and is observed annually on August 14 to remember the loss of life, mass displacement, riots, and suffering endured during the 1947 partition. The day was formally announced by Modi himself.
