New Delhi: He stated that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose possessed the courage to fearlessly confront the British, and had he been present during that period, India would not have undergone partition, according to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Delivering the inaugural Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose memorial lecture organised by ASSOCHAM, Doval expressed his admiration for Netaji and emphasised that Bose was resolute in his fight for India's independence and did not seek to plead for freedom.

Bose aimed not only to end political subjugation but also to transform the people's political, social, economic, and cultural mindset, enabling them to experience freedom and liberation akin to birds soaring in the sky.

Doval extensively spoke on different aspects of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's life and highlighted that Bose displayed the audacity to challenge even Mahatma Gandhi.

He also emphasised that despite their differences, Bose held a profound respect for Gandhi.

Bose strongly believed freedom from British rule was the right of the Indian’s and it was not something we needed to plead for.

If Subhas Bose was there, India wouldn’t have been partitioned. Jinnah had said he could accept only one leader that was Bose, said Doval.

Bose had the courage to swim against the current and conventions. There are very few similar instances in Indian and global history to show us a leader of his calibre. He demonstrated unmatched bravery and determination, Doval remarked.

Bose possessed audacity like no other. Throughout his life he exhibited it in different situations, from his journey to London for the ICS to his escape from India during detention, he stated.

His leadership was exceptional and he recognised India as a reality cutting across caste, religion, and ethnicity. The spirit of his vision of a united India is embodied in his famous slogan ‘Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja’.

The ethos of this slogan resonated with people from all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds.

Bose was a secular person and deeply religious and spiritual. His great efforts for freedom struggle were driven by his passion for patriotism and his unwavering dream of a great India.

Although history may not have treated Netaji kindly, his influence and dedication to nationalism persisted even after his demise. He left an unforgettable impression on the hearts and minds of numerous Indians who were inspired by his remarkable journey, Doval said.