They didn't get time to prepare so they criticise demonetisation, PM Modi on critics

Says, every person has a right to spend his or her money and no one can take anyone's money

Defending the Centre over demonetisation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the move had empowered the common man in the fight against black money, while taking a swing at the opposition and critics saying they were flustered as they were caught off guard.

"Those criticising the demonetisation move don't have problem with government's preparedness; they have problem that they didn't get time to prepare," the Prime Minister said.

He further said, every person has a right to spend his or her money and no one can take anyone's money. Now people can spend through mobile technology and make use of digital transactions for ease of banking and move towards cashless economy. 

Speaking at book release function in Parliament House Annexe on occasion of Constitution Day, he also said that the common citizen of India has become a soldier against corruption and black money.

Invoking Babasaheb Ambedkar, the Prime Minister Modi said that whenever we think of the Constitution, we remember the Dalit leader and freedom fighter.

"November 26 was decided to be observed as Constitution Day to celebrate the Constitution and have greater awareness among the youth. It is important to be connected with the spirit of the Constitution, not only be aware of its various articles," Prime Minister Modi said.

He added that though India celebrates January 26 (Republic Day), it would be incomplete without November 26.

He was speaking at a book release function in Parliament House Annexe on the occasion of Constitution Day.