India strongly fighting against those supporting terrorism: PM Modi

Addressing the nation on the 73rd Independence Day from the rampart of historic Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India is strongly fighting against those who are spreading terrorism.

"India is strongly fighting against those who are spreading terrorism. Terrorism in any part of the world is a war against humanity and hence all humanitarian forces should come together to expose the real face of those who harbour, promote or export terrorism. Those who give protection and support terrorism must be completely exposed," the prime minister said in his speech. This was PM Modi's sixth Independence Day speech and the first after returning to power with a massive mandate.

The prime minister emphasised that his government's policy for eradicating terrorism was firm and clear.

PM Modi said India stands strongly against terrorism, and is presenting before the world the "true colours" of those who shelter and finance terrorism.

"Different parts of the world are struggling with conflicts and security crisis. For world peace, India has to play its role. In global aspects, India cannot stay a silent witness to it. We all must come together to identify those who support or breed terrorism. We are committed to fighting against terrorism," he said.

"We will expose before the world all exporters of terror. We, together with other countries of the world, will fight those sheltering terrorism, financing and exporting terrorism. We are presenting their true colours in front of the world," he added.

He said neighbouring countries - Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka - have been victims of the terror attacks. "So when India is fighting against terrorism, we are playing our role on the world stage," he said.

He greeted Afghanistan that is going to celebrate its 100 years of Independence after four days.