In recent addresses, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sharpened his rhetoric against Pakistan, asserting that its "true nature" as a state sponsor of terrorism has been exposed. Modi's statements come in the wake of heightened tensions between the two countries, particularly following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22nd.
PM Modi has declared that India responded decisively to Pakistani aggression with airbase attacks, specifically referencing "Operation Sindoor" as a testament to India's resolve. Speaking at a rally in Bhuj, Gujarat, on May 26, 2025, Modi stated that India's response was so strong that Pakistan's airbases are "still in ICU," suggesting significant damage inflicted by Indian forces. He emphasized that Pakistan was forced to wave the white flag due to the valor of the Indian Armed Forces.
Modi's remarks underscore a shift in India's approach to dealing with Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. He asserted that Pakistan's support for cross-border terrorism is destroying the future of its own children and urged the people of Pakistan to realize this harsh reality. Modi issued a direct warning, stating, "Live a life of peace and contentment, have your meals… otherwise, my bullet is ready."
Furthermore, Modi criticized Pakistan's military and government, accusing them of turning terrorism into a business model, a source of income at the cost of their citizens' lives and futures. He challenged the people of Pakistan to decide if this is the future they desire, contrasting it with India's focus on tourism and economic development. Modi claimed that India believes in tourism, but Pakistan sees "terrorism as tourism," deeming it dangerous for the world.
In another rally in Bikaner, Rajasthan, on May 22, 2025, Modi highlighted the destruction of Pakistan's Rahim Yar Khan airbase during Operation Sindoor, stating that it is in "ICU" and unsure when it will reopen. He also referenced a drone attack launched by Pakistan on Kutch, Gujarat, suggesting it was a personal attack since he hails from Gujarat. Modi reiterated that India targeted only terrorist camps with precision during Operation Sindoor, while Pakistan chose to escalate with open aggression.
Modi has framed Pakistan's support for terrorism not merely as a proxy war, but as a deliberate and sustained military strategy dating back to 1947. He criticized decisions made at the time, suggesting that if Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's advice to reclaim Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) had been followed, the country could have averted the prolonged issue of terrorism.
Pakistan has reacted strongly to Modi's statements, condemning them as "reckless provocation" and a threat to regional peace. The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over the "continued erosion of maturity and decorum in Indian statecraft," describing Modi's speech as delivered with the theatrical flourish of a campaign rally rather than the sobriety expected of the leader of a nuclear-armed state.
Despite these tensions, Modi has urged citizens to pursue economic self-reliance as part of Operation Sindoor's extended spirit, calling for reducing dependence on imported goods. He also criticized the prevalence of imported items, even in cultural and religious contexts, stating that even Ganesh idols come from abroad.
