(Image source from: x.com/BJP4India)

In a televised address today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan, as more than just a military initiative; he characterized it as a fundamental shift in India’s approach and policy towards combating terrorism. This statement marked his first public communication following India's launch of cruise missiles at terrorist installations in both Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

PM Modi asserted that Operation Sindoor is an ongoing commitment to take decisive action against state-sponsored terrorism that threatens Indian citizens. He echoed the words of senior officials from the three branches of the armed forces over the past couple of days, declaring, "This is the new normal. If our citizens are attacked, India will strike decisively at the core of terrorism." He emphasized that "nuclear coercion" would not deter India from taking action. This speech holds considerable significance, as it signals that India will retaliate vigorously if state-backed terrorist activities affect any of its citizens.

Analysts note that the Prime Minister's remarks represent a significant shift in India’s anti-terrorism stance. India has endured many cross-border terrorist attacks, and PM Modi took a strong stand against the entire network of terror originating from Pakistan, specifically labeling locations such as Bahawalpur and Muridke as “terrorism universities.” He remarked, "We will not distinguish between terrorists and the state that harbors them. The world has witnessed Pakistani army officials attending the funerals of terrorists. This is substantial proof of state-sponsored terrorism." He vowed that India would undertake rigorous measures to ensure its safety and stated boldly that Operation Sindoor would be remembered historically.

He highlighted the nation's demonstrated capabilities in diverse terrains from deserts to mountains and indicated that India had made formidable strides in modern warfare. The Prime Minister noted that terrorists failed to foresee such a daring response, but when the nation unites under the principle of "nation first," decisive actions lead to significant outcomes.

PM Modi pointed out that India's missile and drone operations against terrorist strongholds in Pakistan not only dismantled their physical infrastructure but also dealt a blow to their morale. He remarked that places like Bahawalpur and Muridke had long served as hubs for global terrorism, with ties to several major attacks around the world, including the 9/11 incidents in the US, the bombings in the London tube, and numerous acts of terrorism in India over the years. He confirmed that the operation had resulted in the removal of over 100 terrorists, including key individuals who had plotted against India for decades, asserting that those who orchestrated threats against the country had been effectively neutralized.

(Video Source: PMO India)