The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, Feb 12, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in the historic port city of Marseille alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders are set to inaugurate a new Indian Consulate General and honor the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the World Wars.
PM Modi highlighted the historical significance of Marseille, recalling that it was here that freedom fighter Veer Savarkar made a daring escape attempt from British custody. He also expressed gratitude to the French activists who had opposed Savarkar’s extradition to British authorities at the time.
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister stated:
**“President Macron and I have arrived in Marseille, where we will be part of important engagements aimed at strengthening the India-France partnership. The inauguration of the new Indian consulate will further enhance people-to-people ties. I will also pay respects to the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the First and Second World Wars.
“Touched down in Marseille. This city holds deep significance in India’s freedom struggle, as it was here that the great Veer Savarkar made a valiant bid for escape. I also extend my gratitude to the people of Marseille and the French activists of that era who stood against his handover to British forces.
“The courage of Veer Savarkar continues to inspire generations!”**
In July 1910, Veer Savarkar was arrested in London due to his involvement in the Nasik Conspiracy Case and was being transported to India for trial. As the ship carrying him, SS Morea, docked at Marseille, he seized the opportunity to escape by diving into the sea and swimming towards the French coast, despite the risk of gunfire from British guards.
Savarkar had moved to the UK to study law and was actively engaged with nationalist organizations such as India House and the Free India Society. He also wrote extensively, advocating complete independence from British rule.
The British government had ordered his extradition to India due to his revolutionary activities. While seeking asylum in France, Savarkar was unfortunately captured and returned to British custody by French port officials.
PM Modi’s visit to Marseille is expected to deepen India-France relations while also commemorating the shared history of the two nations. The opening of the Indian consulate will facilitate stronger diplomatic and cultural exchanges, reinforcing the growing partnership between the two countries.
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