Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation via videoconference on Monday, May 12, highlighting India’s recent display of both strength and restraint. He extended a heartfelt salute to the armed forces, intelligence agencies, and scientists, praising their courage during Operation Sindoor. He dedicated the operation’s success to the mothers, sisters, and daughters of the nation.
Condemnation of Pahalgam Terror Attack
Strongly condemning the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Modi described it as a horrific act that shocked the nation and the world. Innocent tourists were brutally killed in front of their families after being questioned about their faith. He called it an attempt to fracture national unity and expressed deep anguish, noting that every citizen, community, and political party stood together in demanding action. The armed forces, he said, were given full freedom to respond decisively.
Calling Operation Sindoor “a reflection of the emotions of millions,” Modi said it was a pledge to justice that was fulfilled on May 6–7. He detailed how Indian forces launched precise strikes on terrorist hideouts in Pakistan, delivering a powerful message. Terrorists, he noted, never imagined India would respond so boldly, but the nation’s unity under Nation First enabled strong decisions and effective results.
The Prime Minister stated that India’s missile and drone strikes not only destroyed terrorist infrastructure but also shattered enemy morale. Notorious hubs like Bahawalpur and Muridke—linked to global attacks including 9/11 and the London Tube bombings—were targeted. Over 100 terrorists, including long-wanted leaders, were eliminated. Modi said the strikes were a direct response to attempts to violate the dignity of Indian women.
Pakistan’s Retaliation and India’s Response
In desperation, Pakistan launched attacks on Indian schools, religious sites, and civilian areas. However, India’s air defense systems successfully intercepted incoming threats. While Pakistan targeted India’s borders, India struck deep into Pakistan’s military infrastructure, damaging key airbases. Within three days, Pakistan suffered greater losses than expected and reached out to India’s DGMO on May 10, seeking de-escalation.
By the time Pakistan sought relief, India had already dismantled major terror networks. In response to Pakistan’s assurance to cease terror and military aggression, India decided to temporarily pause further counter-operations. Modi stressed this is not a conclusion—India will closely monitor Pakistan’s actions and respond accordingly.
New Security Doctrine Announced
Modi declared that Operation Sindoor marks a new chapter in India’s fight against terrorism, setting a firm national security doctrine based on three pillars:
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Decisive Retaliation – Any terrorist act will be met with a resolute and targeted response.
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No Tolerance for Nuclear Blackmail – India will not be deterred by nuclear threats.
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No Distinction Between Terrorists and Sponsors – Governments sheltering terrorists will be held equally accountable.
He also highlighted Pakistani military officials’ open association with slain terrorists, underscoring state-sponsored terror.
The Prime Minister said Operation Sindoor has added a new dimension to India’s battlefield capabilities—across desert, mountain, and high-tech domains. The success of Made in India defense equipment was clearly demonstrated, marking India’s rise as a force in modern warfare.
Unity and Zero Tolerance
Calling unity India’s greatest strength, Modi asserted that while this is not an age of war, it also cannot be one of terrorism. “Zero tolerance against terrorism is the guarantee of a better and safer world,” he declared.
Modi warned that Pakistan’s continued nurturing of terrorism would lead to its downfall. “If Pakistan wants to survive, it must dismantle its terror infrastructure—there is no other path to peace,” he said. He reiterated that:
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Terror and talks cannot coexist.
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Terror and trade cannot go hand-in-hand.
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Blood and water cannot flow together.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s longstanding policy: any future talks with Pakistan will focus solely on terrorism, and any negotiations will center only around Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).
A Message on Buddha Purnima
On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, the Prime Minister reflected on Lord Buddha’s teachings, emphasizing that the path to peace must be guided by strength. He underscored the need for humanity to progress toward peace and prosperity, where every Indian can live with dignity and contribute to the vision of a Viksit Bharat. Modi asserted that peace can only be preserved through strength, and that India must be prepared to act when necessary. He concluded by saluting the valor of the Indian armed forces once again and expressed deep respect for the courage and unity of the Indian people.