Defence Minister Rajnath Singh issued a stern warning to Pakistan on Friday, stating that its leadership should not harbour any "illusions" about India's military strength and political will, in the wake of the recent cross-border strikes dubbed 'Operation Sindoor'.
Speaking at the Economic Times World Leaders’ Forum, Singh underscored that the operation had demonstrated New Delhi's firm and decisive approach to tackling security threats emanating from across the border.
Without directly naming Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir, the Defence Minister launched a sharp critique of the General’s recent remarks, where Munir had reportedly compared Pakistan to a "dumper truck" and alluded to the country's nuclear capabilities. Singh described these comments as a reflection of a "predatory mentality" and a "confession" of Islamabad's historic failures.
"The Pakistan Army chief, knowingly or unknowingly, has pointed towards a predatory mentality (kabilai aur looteri mansikta) that Pakistan has been a victim of since its inception," Singh said.
He emphatically stated that India’s resolve to protect its national security is absolute. "We must ensure that along with India's prosperity, our fighting spirit for our defence capability and national honour remains equally strong. Operation Sindoor has already shown our resolve. We will not allow any illusion about India's strength to take root in Pakistan's mind," he asserted.
Operation Sindoor was launched by Indian forces on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories. This was a direct response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 people. The military action triggered four days of clashes along the Line of Control before a ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10.
Singh also addressed General Munir's analogy that described India as a "Mercedes" and Pakistan as a "dumper truck full of gravel," interpreting it as a stark admission of failure.
"If two countries got independence together and one built an economy like a sports car with hard work, right policies and vision, while the other remained stuck in failure, it is their own doing. This is not a joke, it is a confession," the Defence Minister remarked.
Striking a philosophical note, Singh contrasted Pakistan's rhetoric with India’s foundational ethos. He emphasized that India's view of strength is not rooted in domination but in harmony and mutual respect.
"In our tradition, the measure of strength is not in the ability to command, but in the capacity to care, not in the pursuit of narrow interests, but in the commitment to the global good,” he said.
Beyond the strategic messaging, Singh also used the platform to promote the government's 'Make in India' initiative in defence, urging foreign companies to invest in the Indian defence manufacturing sector, highlighting it as a opportunity for global collaboration.
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