New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort to deliver a clear and uncompromising message to Pakistan, declaring that India will treat terrorists and their supporters as one and the same, and that any future provocation will meet a decisive response from the armed forces.
Speaking on the 79th Independence Day, PM Modi lauded the success of Operation Sindoor, calling it a historic blow to Pakistan’s terror infrastructure. He noted that the scale of damage inflicted was so extensive that fresh details of its impact are still emerging.
“What the Indian armed forces achieved during Operation Sindoor is unprecedented in recent decades,” the Prime Minister said. “Our brave soldiers struck deep into enemy territory, dismantling terrorist bases beyond their imagination. This is the new normal for India in confronting cross-border terrorism.”
Referring to the Pahalgam attack, Modi revealed that the government had granted the military complete autonomy to determine strategy, targets, and timing in its response. “After the 22nd, our forces were given a free hand, and they acted with precision and resolve. The message is clear—should the enemy attempt any misadventure again, our reply will be swift and decisive,” he warned.
The Prime Minister also took aim at Pakistan’s nuclear posturing, stating firmly that India would not be intimidated. He further criticised the Indus Water Treaty, calling it unfair to India and asserting that the nation’s rightful share of river waters must serve its own farmers, not those across the border.
“Our rivers were sustaining the enemy while our farmers struggled. That era is over. Water that belongs to India will now remain in India. Blood and water will not flow together,” he said.
PM Modi concluded his address by reaffirming India’s resolve to protect both its sovereignty and the welfare of its citizens, making it clear that the era of unchecked cross-border aggression is over.
