*PRESS RELEASE*
*For Immediate Release*

# “BHARAT FIRST” Gathering in Munich Voices Support for India’s Democratic Mandate

*Indian diaspora participants call for national unity, responsible public debate and constructive engagement with German society*

*Munich, 25 October 2026:* Members of the Indian diaspora gathered at Rindermarkt in Munich on Saturday, 24 October, for “BHARAT FIRST,” a peaceful public demonstration organised by Team NRIs for BHARAT RISE.

Led by Munich-based organisers , with support from a dedicated volunteer team, the gathering brought together Indian professionals, students and families to express solidarity with India and support for its democratically elected government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The event centred on a shared message: political differences should be debated responsibly, India’s democratic institutions deserve respect, and overseas Indians have a constructive role to play in shaping understanding of their country.

*A call for informed discussion about India*

Speakers voiced concern about portrayals of India abroad that they consider selective, misleading or disconnected from the experiences of its people. They encouraged diaspora members to respond through verifiable information, peaceful participation and open dialogue.

Organisers emphasised that criticism is part of democratic life, while urging commentators and campaigners to distinguish disagreement with government policy from sweeping judgments about India, its institutions or its citizens.

*Diverse voices within the diaspora*

Participants also challenged the assumption that prominent overseas commentators represent the views of the wider Indian community. Discussions included disagreement with commentary by Germany-based YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, with organisers stressing that no individual speaks for the entire diaspora.

The gathering offered a platform for attendees to express their own perspectives on India’s development, national sovereignty and democratic choices, while recognising that overseas Indian communities hold a range of political opinions.

*Dialogue with Munich residents*

Alongside speeches and expressions of solidarity, attendees engaged with passing Munich residents about the purpose of the demonstration. These conversations provided opportunities to discuss India’s electoral system, share participants’ perspectives on the country’s progress and encourage greater understanding between Indian and German communities.

For the organisers, this public engagement was an important part of the event: creating space for direct conversations and allowing residents to hear from diaspora members themselves.

*Commitment to peaceful civic participation*

The gathering concluded with an appeal for unity, factual public discussion and continued civic engagement. Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to expressing support for India through lawful, peaceful means and respectful dialogue.

They thanked the volunteers and participants whose efforts made the Munich gathering possible.