“PM Modi indulged Pakistan in a cordial manner… However, what does India possess? The former Union Law and Justice Minister claims that Pulwama and Uri (attacks)
Hours before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation on Operation Sindoor, senior BJP leader and former Union Minister of Law and Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad spoke to The Indian Express about the developments since May 7, when Indian Armed Forces obliterated nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack on tourists. He emphasized the Centre’s resolute stance on terrorism and the message India aims to convey globally. Excerpts:
- What was the message of Operation Sindoor?
We take immense pride in our Armed Forces and the unwavering leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India has demonstrated its capability to deliver decisive blows against terrorism. The precision strikes on terrorist strongholds were remarkable. When Modiji became PM in 2014, he extended goodwill by inviting then-Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to his oath-taking and even attended Sharif’s grandson’s wedding. Operation Sindoor, aptly named, resonated deeply with Indians: “You erased the sindoor of India’s daughters; through Operation Sindoor, we will eradicate you.” Two women officers, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, became the face of this operation, addressing the media with poise. - Indian cities faced drone attacks from Pakistan, impacting the sense of security…
Our cities are secure, and India is well-protected. Our strength was evident in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan’s attempts were futile. PM Modi’s focus on indigenous weapon production and bolstering the Armed Forces has yielded results. Akash, BrahMos, and Rafale are now proud symbols of our military prowess. - What message does the BJP send to Pakistan and the world?
India will not compromise on its security. Every Indian life is as valuable as any other. Terrorism is a global scourge, and the world must unite to combat it. This is our message. - US President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire first, sparking criticism about third-party involvement…
This is a diplomatic matter being addressed at the highest levels. India’s stance is clear: bilateral issues must be resolved bilaterally. While we welcome suggestions, if terrorism is fueled under the guise of bilateral issues, India will respond decisively—as it has. - Without direct engagement with Pakistan, does diplomacy face challenges?
Over 75 years, India-Pakistan ties have been marred by bloody conflicts and wars. We’ve endured enough. The message is clear: no more. India will respond firmly to any aggression. - Did China play a role in the ceasefire talks?
There was engagement between our National Security Advisor and China’s Foreign Minister, who condemned terrorism. India’s fight is against terrorism, and PM Modi’s government is committed to protecting every citizen, independent of external equations. - Misinformation and social media attacks, including on the Foreign Secretary’s family, have been rampant. Does this hinder diplomacy?
I won’t judge TV channels or social media. Most channels act responsibly with India’s interests at heart. Trolling the Foreign Secretary’s daughter is wrong and deplorable. Such reckless social media behavior will be addressed through proper mechanisms. - What has India faced from Pakistan, and how has it responded?
Pakistan has given us Pulwama, Uri, and now Pahalgam. We decided to take a tough stand against terrorism, disengaging diplomatically. Despite Pakistan’s military actions, Pahalgam demanded a fierce response to showcase India’s might. Indian forces demolished terror hubs like Bahawalpur and strategic air bases like Sargodha and Nur Khan with pinpoint accuracy, striking deep into Pakistan. Under PM Modi, our defense capabilities have soared. From Leh-Ladakh to Bhuj, our systems thwarted all threats. Terrorists have been neutralized, and the nation stands reassured and proud.
