Suhail Khan
Srinagar, May 15 ; Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to peace while warning that any threat to the nation’s sovereignty would invoke a forceful response.
Addressing Indian Army soldiers at the Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, as per Kashmir Despatch he stated, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has redefined India’s policy against terrorism, making it clear that any attack on Indian soil will be considered an act of war.”
Rajnath Singh emphasized that while India has long championed peace and sought to avoid conflict, it will not hesitate to retaliate if its sovereignty is challenged. He issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that if it continues to support terrorism, “it will pay a heavier price.”
Operation Sindoor: A Defining Moment in India’s Fight Against Terrorism
The Defence Minister described Operation Sindoor as India’s most decisive action against terrorism, underscoring the nation’s resolve to eliminate the menace at any cost. “Operation Sindoor was not just about defence; it was about taking bold action when necessary. Our soldiers fulfilled their duty by striking terrorist hideouts and neutralizing those who targeted Indians based on religion. We held them accountable for their crimes—this was our dharma,” he declared.
He further noted that the operation sent a clear message to terrorist groups and their handlers in Pakistan that they were no longer safe. “Our forces have proven that their precision is unmatched. Let the enemy count their losses,” he added.
The defence minister criticized Pakistan for its reckless nuclear threats, questioning the safety of its atomic arsenal. He stated, “The world has seen how irresponsibly Pakistan has brandished nuclear threats against India. I ask the global community: Are nuclear weapons secure in the hands of such a rogue nation? Pakistan’s nuclear program must be placed under International Atomic Energy Agency supervision.”
Recalling Pakistan’s broken promise to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to stop exporting terrorism, Rajnath Singh accused Islamabad of continued deceit. He said, “Pakistan shelters anti-India terror groups and allows its soil to be used against us. This must end.”
Highlighting the stark contrast between the two nations, he noted, “Pakistan is now seeking loans from the IMF, while India is among the countries funding the IMF to aid poorer nations.”
Reiterating Prime Minister Modi’s stance, the Defence Minister asserted that dialogue and terrorism cannot coexist. He remarked, “Any future talks with Pakistan will focus solely on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.”
Rajnath Singh paid homage to the civilians killed in the Pahalgam terror attack and the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during Operation Sindoor. He also commended the bravery of injured troops and wished them a swift recovery.
Praising the armed forces for their valor, he assured ongoing government support in modernizing defence capabilities. He emphasized, “We are equipping our soldiers with advanced weaponry, missile defence systems, and drones—all made in India. Our infrastructure along the Line of Control and Line of Actual Control has been strengthened like never before. Just as our soldiers serve the nation with dedication, the government is committed to serving them.”
The event was attended by Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, and other senior officials.
Rajnath Singh further added, with a powerful message: “India stands united with its armed forces. Together, we will eradicate terrorism and ensure that no one dares to threaten our nation’s sovereignty.”