India Values Peace but Will Respond Decisively to Any Threat to Sovereignty: Rajnath Singh
New Delhi/Srinagar, May 16:
Addressing brave Indian Army personnel at the Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar on May 15, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has redefined India’s stance on terrorism: “Any attack on Indian soil will now be treated as an act of war.” Emphasizing that India has always prioritized peace and never supported war, the Defence Minister underlined that a firm response becomes imperative when national sovereignty is challenged.
He warned that Pakistan will pay a heavy price if it continues to support terrorism.
Calling Operation Sindoor India’s most significant counter-terror operation in history, Singh said the mission demonstrates the nation’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism. “The operation reflected India’s resolve not just to defend itself but to act decisively when necessary,” he remarked. “Every soldier dreamed of reaching and eliminating every terrorist hideout. The terrorists targeted Indians based on religion, but we targeted them for their crimes. It was our duty to eliminate them.”
The Defence Minister added that Operation Sindoor had sent a clear message to terrorist organizations and their backers across the border: “You are not safe anywhere.” He praised the precision and effectiveness of the Indian Armed Forces, stating, “Our forces have shown the world their unmatched capability, leaving the enemy to count their losses.”
Singh further said that India’s resolve remains unshaken, even in the face of Pakistan’s nuclear threats: “The world has seen how irresponsibly Pakistan has issued nuclear threats. I ask the global community—can such weapons be safe in the hands of a rogue, irresponsible nation? Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal should be brought under the monitoring of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).”
He recalled that the Pahalgam attack was an attempt to disrupt India’s social unity, and praised the Armed Forces for responding with strength and precision. Referring to Pakistan’s earlier promise—made nearly 21 years ago under then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee—to end support for terrorism, Singh said, “Pakistan has continued to betray India. It must stop sheltering anti-India and terrorist groups and ensure that its soil is not used against India.”
The Defence Minister pointed to Pakistan’s economic condition, saying, “While Pakistan seeks loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), India is among the countries contributing to the IMF to help poorer nations.”
Reiterating India’s position, he said, “Any cross-border provocation violates the mutual understanding between both countries. As PM Modi has clearly stated, talks and terrorism cannot go hand in hand. And if talks are to happen, they will be on terrorism and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).”
Singh paid tribute to the innocent civilians killed in the Pahalgam terrorist attack, as well as the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during Operation Sindoor. He praised the courage of the injured and wished them a swift recovery.
He also extended gratitude to the soldiers who destroyed Pakistani bunkers and outposts across the border, sending an unmistakable signal to the enemy: “I bring the voice of the people of India—they are proud of their Armed Forces.”
Commending the valour and dedication of India’s soldiers, Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping the Armed Forces with advanced weapons, platforms, and modern infrastructure. “We are ensuring our forces are fully prepared for every scenario. Modern rifles, missile defense systems, and drones are being rapidly developed within India. Connectivity along the LoC and LAC is better than ever before,” he said. “As our soldiers serve the nation with unmatched commitment, the government is equally dedicated to serving them.”
He concluded by assuring the Armed Forces that both the government and the people of India stand firmly with them in every situation. Expressing confidence, he said, “With the continued cooperation of our Armed Forces, India will soon root out terrorism in this region—ensuring no one dares to challenge our sovereignty.”
Present on the occasion were Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and other senior officers of the Indian Army.
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