Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently addressed the nation, highlighting the strength and resolve of the armed forces in combating terrorism. Speaking from Bagdogra, West Bengal, where he was scheduled to attend Sikkim's 50th statehood celebrations before weather intervened, Modi asserted that "Operation Sindoor" served as a potent response to those who have unleashed terror within India's borders.
Modi's remarks come in the wake of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam last month, which he described as an assault on humanity itself. The Prime Minister emphasized that the attack, which claimed the lives of numerous innocent civilians, was not merely an act of violence but an attempt to sow discord and division among the Indian people. Modi stated that terrorists tried to divide the Indians and snatched happiness from so many families.
In response to the Pahalgam tragedy, the Indian government launched "Operation Sindoor," a military operation aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and sending a clear message to those who harbor ill intentions towards the nation. Modi asserted that India waited 15 days to see if Pakistan would take any action. But when no steps were taken, he gave the armed forces a free hand under Operation Sindoor, a mission he described as a clear assertion of India's zero-tolerance policy on terror. Modi declared that nine terrorist hideouts were destroyed in just 22 minutes in India's airstrikes during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, calling it a decisive action. Speaking at a rally in Gandhinagar, he stressed that the entire action was recorded on camera to silence any calls for proof.
The Prime Minister lauded the bravery and courage of the Indian armed forces, intelligence agencies, and scientists, dedicating the success of "Operation Sindoor" to every mother, sister, and daughter of the country. He emphasized that the operation was not just a military endeavor but a reflection of the collective sentiment of the Indian people and their unwavering commitment to justice.
Modi also took aim at Pakistan, stating that the operation had exposed their role in supporting terrorism on the global stage. He pointed to instances where terrorists killed after May 6 were buried with full state honors in Pakistan, draped in national flags and saluted by the Pakistani army. This, he said, clearly shows that terrorism is not just a shadow war but part of a deliberate and organized military strategy. He further added that the retaliation was so strong that their airbases are still in ICU.
Beyond the immediate response to terrorism, Modi also touched upon the broader development agenda for the Northeast region, particularly Sikkim. He expressed his government's commitment to transforming India into a sports superpower and highlighted Sikkim's potential as a hub for adventure sports and organic exports. Connectivity projects like the Sevoke-Rangpo rail link were also underscored as crucial for the region's progress.
While addressing the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood, Modi regretted that he could not attend the function due to inclement weather. However, he assured the people of Sikkim of his continued support and reiterated the state's importance as a "pride of the nation."
