Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a scathing attack on Pakistan, accusing the country of harboring and promoting terrorism as a means of income, while India focuses on tourism to build international connections. Addressing a rally in Bhuj, Gujarat, on May 26, 2025, Modi asserted that Pakistan views terrorism as a form of tourism, a dangerous ideology that has wrecked the nation's future.
Modi's remarks come in the wake of heightened tensions between the two countries following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people. India responded with Operation Sindoor, a large-scale military strike targeting terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan. Modi stated that India had waited 15 days for Pakistan to act against the terrorist elements but, receiving no response, gave the Indian armed forces a free hand.
"India believes in tourism; it connects nations. But Pakistan considers terrorism as tourism. This is dangerous for the world," Modi declared, emphasizing India's commitment to fostering peaceful relations and economic growth. He contrasted this with Pakistan's alleged reliance on terrorism as a source of revenue, accusing the Pakistani government and army of promoting it for their own benefit.
Modi directly addressed the people of Pakistan, urging them to reject terrorism and strive for a peaceful and prosperous future. "The people of Pakistan need to come forward to get their country rid of terrorism. Their youth will have to come forward," he said, calling on them to decide whether the path of terrorism benefits them or destroys the future of their children. He also issued a stern warning: "Live a life of peace and eat your roti in calm, or else, my bullet is always ready."
The Prime Minister highlighted India's economic progress, noting its rise to the fourth-largest economy in the world, and questioned Pakistan's situation, suggesting that the promotion of terrorism has led to its decline. He accused Pakistan of attempting to target Indian civilians on May 9, which prompted a strong counteroffensive by the Indian military, resulting in the destruction of Pakistani airbases.
Modi also referenced the courage and resilience of the women of Kutch, who rebuilt the Bhuj runway in just 72 hours during the 1971 war. He stated that these same women recently blessed him and gifted him a 'sindoor' plant, which he intends to plant at the PM House, symbolizing the strength and spirit of the Indian people.
Operation Sindoor, according to Modi, was not just a military response but a clear assertion of India's zero-tolerance policy on terrorism. He stated that India's retaliation was so strong that Pakistan's airbases were still in "ICU," and emphasized that anyone who makes India bleed will face a similar response.
Modi's strong words reflect a broader shift in India's approach to Pakistan, characterized by assertiveness and strategic clarity. He has made it clear that India will no longer accept terrorism as the price of peace and that diplomacy must be backed by strength. He has urged Pakistan to abandon terrorism as a state policy and pursue meaningful reforms.