Srinagar, May 15 (KNO): Terming ‘Operation Sindoor’, as the most decisive anti-terror action in the past 30 years, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday warned Pakistan that it would have to “pay a heavy price” if it continues to support terrorism.
Addressing soldiers at Badamibagh Cantonment here, Singh, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Pakistan has repeatedly backstabbed India. But this time, we have ripped apart their chest in response to the assault on our innocent citizens in Pahalgam.”
He reiterated that “talks and terror” cannot go together and if talks are held any time these will focus on Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) and terrorism.
He warned Pakistan of dire consequences if any terror attack takes place in India saying, “PM Modi has made India’s position unequivocal, any terror act will be considered an act of war.”
He reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace but issued a stern warning: “India has never favoured war, but when it comes to giving a befitting reply, we do not hesitate. Our armed forces are respected across the world. We have ensured they are equipped with the latest technology and weaponry.”
LAUDS COURAGE, PRECISION OF ARMED FORCES
The Defence Minister lauded the courage, precision, and professionalism displayed by Indian soldiers during ‘Operation Sindoor’. “Under PM Modi’s leadership the forces carried out Operation Sindoor with “unmatched intensity and purpose.”
“You did not just defend — you attacked. And you attacked with full intensity when the need arose,” he told the soldiers.
THEY ASKED RELIGION BEFORE KILLING THEM, WE HIT THEM BACK ON BASIS OF THEIR KARMA
Referring to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 civilians, mostly tourists, dead, Singh said, “The entire nation stood united in grief and anger. What was more heartening was how the people of Jammu and Kashmir took to the streets to condemn the terror attack. They sent a clear message: terrorism will not be tolerated,” he added.
Referring to the moral contrast between Indian soldiers and terrorists, Singh said, “They asked the religion of innocent civilians before shooting them. But we hit them back on the basis of their karma.”
“It was a dream of every soldier that we will reach every terrorist hideout and destroy them. Terrorists killed Indians based on their religion, we killed them for their deeds. It was our dharma to eliminate them. Our forces gave the right direction to their anger and took revenge for Pahalgam with great courage & discretion,” he added.
As Defence Minister, Singh said during all these years he has felt proud to “know brave forces better” and assured them of the nation’s unwavering support. “You have avenged the Pahalgam attack. You’ve made the nation proud,” he said.
Singh said that through the Pahalgam incident, an attempt was made to break the social unity of India but the armed forces gave them a a befitting reply.
INDIA CAN GO TO ANY EXTENT TO PROTECT ITS PEOPLE
The Defence Minister recalled Pakistan’s declaration about 21 years ago in front of the then Prime Minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee that terrorism will no longer be exported from its land. “Pakistan has been deceiving India, and it must stop sheltering anti-India and terrorist organisations & not allow its land to be used against India,” he said.
The Defence Minister said he had come to Srinagar “to feel the power of your energy, the power through which you destroyed enemy shelters with pinpoint precision.”
He praised the forces for maintaining their composure during the operation, saying, “Even in josh, you kept your hosh.”
Operation Sindoor, Singh said, has sent a loud and clear message to terror masterminds that they are not safe anywhere. “This operation has proven that India can go to any extent to protect its people. India has not succumbed to any nuclear blackmail and never will,” he added, in a clear message to Pakistan.
On the question of global nuclear security, Singh raised serious concerns, stating, “I want to ask the world — are nukes safe in Pakistan’s hands? The IAEA must take control of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal before it’s too late.”
Taking a swipe at Pakistan’s economic woes, Singh said, “While Pakistan is begging the IMF for funds, India is contributing aid to IMF to help poor countries. That is the difference between the two nations.”
The Defence Minister praised the valour and dedication of the armed forces and reiterated the Government’s commitment to continue equipping the soldiers with advanced weapons & platforms and modern infrastructure. “Our Government has ensured that our forces are prepared for every situation. Many new generation equipment like modern rifles, missile defence shields, and drones are being rapidly manufactured in India itself.”
“Connectivity has been ensured along LoC and LAC like never before. The devotion and readiness with which our soldiers serve the country, the government is trying to serve you,” he said—(KNO)