BJP chief Amit Shah said: If you speak against the country, forgive me, that won’t be tolerated as it is not in the real spirit of the freedom of expression. (Source: File Photo) BJP chief Amit Shah said: If you speak against the country, forgive me, that won’t be tolerated as it is not in the real spirit of the freedom of expression. (Source: File Photo)

BJP chief Amit Shah Friday said “anti-India” comments won’t be tolerated under the guise of freedom of expression. “The idea behind democracy is to ensure that the last person avails the benefit of freedom of expression and is able to fully utilise it to develop himself, but prolonged dissent will divide the nation,” he said. Shah was speaking at the India Idea Conclave here. The theme for the three-day meet is Democracy, Development and Dissent.

Shah said since Independence, PM Narendra Modi has been the most bitterly criticised figure. “Though Narendra Modi is the PM, you can criticise him, his policy and his ministers. But if you speak against the country, forgive me, that won’t be tolerated as it is not in the real spirit of the freedom of expression,” he said.

The BJP president said that it was after 30 years that the nation had voted a party to power with an absolute majority. “The government is working with an idea of inclusiveness and development in every sphere. However, if dissent continues unwarrantedly, there can be no development,” he said.

He also said that the centre is in no confusion on empowerment of women, irrespective of religion. “On triple talaq, the government is clear. The Prime Minister spoke of it on the Independence Day,” Shah said.

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