New Delhi: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has issued a strong statement regarding India's stance on terrorism and its preparedness to respond to any provocations from across the border. Speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue on Monday, Gen. Dwivedi asserted that Operation Sindoor, the military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, was just a "trailer," suggesting a larger demonstration of India's capabilities.
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, following a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, a charge Pakistan denied. The operation involved missile strikes on alleged terrorist infrastructure belonging to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. While India claimed to have targeted only terrorist facilities, Pakistan alleged that civilian areas, including mosques, were hit, resulting in civilian casualties.
Gen. Dwivedi's remarks come in the wake of a recent car blast near the Red Fort in Delhi, further intensifying concerns about national security. He emphasized that India is fully prepared for future challenges and will not be intimidated by any "blackmail attempts". "If Pakistan gives us an opportunity, we will teach them how a neighbour should behave," he stated, reiterating India's firm position against terrorism and its sponsors.
The Army Chief highlighted that India has adopted a "new normal" where talks and terror cannot coexist. "All we are asking is to adopt a peaceful process, which we will cooperate with. Until then, we will treat terrorists and their sponsors alike. We will respond to those who encourage terrorists," he said. He also added, "Even if we have a 'barren letter', we know where it comes from,".
Gen. Dwivedi noted that modern warfare requires coordination across multiple platforms and domains. He stressed the need for the country to be prepared for prolonged engagements. "In today's time, battles are multi-domain. We cannot say how long it will last. We have to ensure we have supplies to last long," he said. He also emphasized the importance of theaterisation in future conflicts, where swift decisions and coordinated action between the Army, Air Force, and Navy will be crucial.
Furthermore, Gen. Dwivedi addressed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that terrorism has significantly declined since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. He attributed this decline to increased political clarity and a strengthened deterrence. He also mentioned the improved situation in Manipur since the imposition of President's Rule, citing increased public trust in the government and improved relations between communities.
Gen Dwivedi's strong message underscores India's commitment to combating terrorism and protecting its national interests. His statement serves as a clear warning to Pakistan and other actors who may seek to destabilize the region. The Army Chief's remarks reflect India's resolve to respond decisively to any future provocations and to ensure that terrorists and their supporters are held accountable.
