In a stern address on Friday, General Upendra Dwivedi, the Indian Army Chief, delivered a powerful warning to Pakistan: persistent state-sponsored terrorism could force the nation to ‘reconsider its very place on the world map.’
Speaking to troops stationed in the forward lines of Anupgarh in Rajasthan’s Sriganganagar district, General Dwivedi assessed their combat readiness and called for unwavering preparedness. He emphasized that India is now fully ready and will not exercise the same restraint shown during the initial phase of ‘Operation Sindoor.’ ‘This time,’ he declared, ‘we will escalate our actions to a degree that will compel Pakistan to question its continued existence on the global stage.’
In a related statement, General Dwivedi referenced ‘Operation Sindoor 1.0,’ highlighting that the Defense Minister credited the success of the operation entirely to the soldiers. He affirmed its deep connection to India’s strategic interests.
He further urged the soldiers to maintain continuous vigilance, stating, ‘Remain fully prepared; if destiny permits, our next opportunity will arrive soon.’
Detailing ‘Operation Sindoor,’ initiated following the April 22nd terror attack in Pahalgam, the Army Chief confirmed that India successfully targeted nine terrorist locations within Pakistan – seven by the Army and two by the Air Force. He clarified, ‘Our objectives were strictly terrorist bases. We hold no grievances against innocent Pakistani citizens; however, as long as the nation fosters terrorism, we will neutralize those who enable it.’
General Dwivedi highlighted that India proactively presented irrefutable evidence for all destroyed targets, directly challenging Pakistan’s previous denials. He further pointed to an inadvertently released casualty list from Islamabad, which surprisingly accounted for over 100 Pakistani soldiers alongside the terrorists eliminated.
Emphasizing the significant international support India garnered post-‘Operation Sindoor,’ the Army Chief asserted that the global community acknowledged New Delhi’s inherent right to take decisive action against terrorism.
Throughout his visit, General Dwivedi engaged with senior military leaders, esteemed veterans, civil dignitaries, and active troops. He reaffirmed the Indian Army’s unwavering dedication to modernization, technological advancements, and achieving peak operational excellence. He specifically stressed the critical need for integrating Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and robust counter-UAS capabilities to effectively confront emerging threats.
The Army Chief also reflected on history, noting that during the 1965 and 1971 conflicts, ordinary citizens bravely stood united with the soldiers. ‘We hope they will continue to join us in the times to come,’ he remarked, expressing gratitude for their fervent spirit, which he said significantly ‘boosts the morale of our soldiers.’