PM Modi Arrives In French Port City Of Marseille, Pays Homage To Savarkar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Marseille, France, and paid tribute to freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who made a daring escape attempt at the port city. Highlighting the historical significance of Marseille in India’s freedom struggle, Modi acknowledged Savarkar’s bravery and the support of French activists who opposed his return to British custody.

During British colonial rule, on July 8, 1910, Savarkar attempted to escape captivity while being transported to India aboard the British ship Morea. Slipping out of a porthole, he swam to shore but was soon captured by French authorities and handed back to the British, leading to a major diplomatic controversy. He was later sentenced to life imprisonment at the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Modi emphasized that Savarkar’s courage continues to inspire generations.