“Told people not to freak out. All they need to do is stay vigilant and do as directed. The Haryana chief minister states, “We are on alert regarding the Ambala air base, which was attacked both in 1965 and 1971.”
Pakistan’s attempted air strikes on Indian military facilities along the northern and western borders have prompted heightened security measures in Haryana, a state bordering Punjab and Rajasthan. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, in an exclusive interview with The Indian Express, discussed the state’s response, the protection of key military installations, and urged citizens to remain calm and avoid panic buying of essentials like food and fuel.
Excerpts from the Interview:
With Punjab and Rajasthan on high alert, how is Haryana responding to the situation?
Haryana has several sensitive locations, and we are vigilantly monitoring developments while making prompt decisions. Schools in Panchkula, Mohali, and Chandigarh have been closed, and Ambala is under heightened alert. I am in constant communication with District Collectors and senior officials to stay updated on the situation.
What is your assessment of how this conflict might evolve?
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is waging a decisive war against terrorism, with our armed forces actively neutralizing terrorist camps in Pakistan. Haryana’s proximity to the border makes us a critical part of this effort. Our forces have successfully countered Pakistan’s provocations, and we are fully prepared for any scenario. All ministers, officials, and police personnel are on high alert, and I am personally overseeing our response. Haryana’s people are resilient and integral to our armed forces—our brave mothers send their sons to defend the nation. As we say, Haryana ke log doodh-dahi khane wale hain (Haryana’s people are strong and healthy). We stand united with the Prime Minister and our forces to ensure Pakistan’s misadventures are stopped and terrorism is eradicated.
What message do you have for the people of Haryana?
We have implemented measures to prevent shortages of food and fuel and to curb sudden inflation spikes. District magistrates are taking proactive steps to maintain stability. I urge the public not to panic—there is no need for it. Stay alert, follow official instructions, and trust that we are managing the situation effectively.
With the Chandigarh airport near an Army camp and Ambala air base, a historical target in 1965 and 1971, what specific precautions are in place?
We are maintaining heightened vigilance around critical installations like the Ambala air base and the Chandigarh airport. Our security forces are on high alert to protect these strategic assets.
How are your ministers supporting these efforts?
We held a Cabinet meeting and are conducting informal discussions to ensure coordination. All ministers have been directed to remain vigilant, provide support in case of border casualties, and closely monitor developments. Terrorism is a scourge that has plagued us for too long, causing immense suffering. While people may face temporary challenges, we are committed to ending this menace. Haryana’s patriotic youth are joining the armed forces to support Prime Minister Modi in this fight, and together, we will ensure terrorism is uprooted
