In a firm statement directed at Pakistan, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, the Western Army Commander, has asserted that any future attacks will be met with an even stronger response from India. Speaking at an ex-servicemen rally in Jammu, commemorating 60 years of the 1965 Indo-Pak War, Lt Gen Katiyar assured that the Indian Army is fully prepared to thwart any nefarious designs.

Lt Gen Katiyar's remarks follow the recent Operation Sindoor, India's response to the terror attack in Pahalgam. He highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of the administration, ex-servicemen, and local population. The operation targeted terror infrastructure across the border as a retaliatory measure against Pakistan-supported cross-border terrorism.

The Army Commander cautioned that Pakistan might attempt another attack similar to the one in Pahalgam. "Pakistan will try to attack us again; they always try to do a Pahalgam-like attack, and we have to be alert. I assure you that the Indian Army is ready to thwart any nefarious designs of Pakistan," Lt Gen Katiyar stated. He praised the coordination between the armed forces, local administration, and citizens, emphasizing its importance for the success of Operation Sindoor.

Drawing a parallel with the 1965 war, Lt Gen Katiyar recalled how Pakistan's misjudgment of the patriotism of the people of Jammu and Kashmir led to its defeat. He noted that Pakistan aimed to capture Jammu and Kashmir during the 1965 war, but they failed to assess the patriotism of the people, who helped the Indian Army chase them away.

Lt Gen Katiyar has previously stated that India's kindness has been rewarded with conflict, referencing India's generosity with the Indus Waters Treaty in 1960 and the consistent efforts of Indian leadership to seek peace. He has also pointed out that Pakistan's military misadventures stem from the belief in the two-nation theory and its perception of India's vulnerability.

He has emphasized a shift in India's strategic thinking, highlighting the country's resolve to strike with impunity at a time and place of its choosing. According to him, India has called Pakistan's nuclear bluff, which had loomed over the subcontinent, by striking hard and with precision in Pakistan Punjab. He also asserted that Operation Sindoor made clear the linkages between Pakistan's military establishment and its terror groups.

Lt Gen Katiyar has also mentioned that besides developing indigenous warfare technology, new technologies like Drones and Counter Drone Systems are also being acquired to counter any threat through un-manned systems. He affirmed that the Indian Army would not be found wanting in any sphere when it comes to fighting Pakistan.