After Chaos, Modi Defends Note Ban in Address to Diaspora in Japan

“I salute our countrymen. Despite the inconvenience, they have worked towards the benefit of the country.”

Following the chaos, long queues, out of cash ATMS, and the general discomfort caused by the discontinuation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, comes PM Modi’s address in Japan.

This is the first time he has spoken about the ‘demonetisation’ move since he made the announcement on 8 November.

In an address to the Indian community in Japan, the Prime Minister touched upon the inconvenience that the common man experienced and how tax defaulters will not be let off so easily.

Here are the key takeaways from his speech.

I salute our countrymen. Despite waiting in queues for hours at a stretch, they have worked towards the benefit of the country.

PM Narendra Modi 

This is a cleanliness campaign; this is not meant to inconvenience anyone. Have given people 50 days to deposit money. 

PM Narendra Modi

My government will do their best to protect the innocent and punish the corrupt. 

PM Narendra Modi

Also read: Before PM’s Announcement, Rumours of Demonetisation Abounded

I was pondering over the difficulties; our team was thinking of ways. But obviously, I couldn’t share it with anyone, it had to be a secret. 

PM Narendra Modi 

Some people would rather throw their money in the river Ganga than put it in the banks. They think if not money, at least they will get blessings. 

PM Narendra Modi 

Also read: PM Modi, Demonetisation ‘Brahmastra’ Could’ve Avoided Hurting Poor

This is not an overnight decision; first we had brought in a scheme. It’s not that no opportunity was given. 

PM Narendra Modi 

All the good things that you wanted to see in India, are now possible. 

PM Narendra Modi 

Also read: Deposit Spike Report Goes Viral; People Knew of Note Ban: Kejriwal