Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday (April22) issued a veiled warning to Pakistan days after his counterpart in the neighbouring country Khwaja Asif threatened to strike Kolkata in case of any “future misadventure” by India. Singh, despite hinting at a definitive response by India, kept his answer open ended by saying that if a neighbour tried to create trouble then “dot, dot, dot” His remarks come at time when the Pahalgam terror attack has marked a year.
Speaking at an event in Germany, the Defence Minister also apparently referred to Pakistan as a “troublesome” neighbour.
“If you look at the history of India, to date, India has not attacked any country in the world from its own side. But the one who is powerful does not attack anyone. But if a neighbour tries to create trouble, then dot, dot, dot… All neighbours are fine, only one is troublesome,” said Singh as quoted by NDTV.
Assertion of military strength
As for India’s military capability, Singh said that it was “stronger than before” adding “There is no need to tell you what our Army has done in Operation Sindoor”.
Also Read: India must stay prepared amid volatile West Asia situation: Rajnath Singh
Earlier in the day Singh recalled the victims of the Pahalgam attack, posting a message of condolence and resolve.
“Remembering and paying my heartfelt tributes to the innocent people who lost their lives in the cowardly terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025. We share the enduring pain of their loved ones and families. We will never forget those wounds inflicted on our nation,” he wrote in a post on X.
Remembering Pahalgam victims
“India has endured decades of cross-border terror, but today our response is firm, decisive and unwavering. Through determined action, we have demonstrated that any attempt to harm our people or disrupt our unity will be met with strength and clarity,” he added.
Also Read: Rajnath Singh warns Pakistan over ‘Kolkata’ remark, cites 1971 war consequences
The attack on April 22, 2025, saw gunmen linked to Pakistan-based groups open fire on civilians in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Twenty-six people were killed, including a Nepali national.
Operation Sindoor and aftermath
India responded weeks later with Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, targeting what officials described as terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Sites associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen were among those hit.
Also Read: Ahead of Pahalgam anniversary, Pakistan defence minister threatens to strike Kolkata
The strikes were followed by a brief period of escalation, including shelling along the Line of Control and reported drone activity. Indian forces carried out what were described as precision operations during those days.
A ceasefire understanding was reached on May 10 after contact between the Directors General of Military Operations of both countries, bringing the four-day flare-up to a halt.
Comments are closed.