Political Reactions to PM Modi's Address After Pahalgam Terror Attack and Operation Sindoor

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address to the nation, delivered shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack and the launch of Operation Sindoor, has sparked a wide range of political reactions from across India. The speech, which touched on military action, national security, and bilateral relations, has dominated political discussions.

PM Narendra Modi addressed the nation following a 'bilateral understanding' with Pakistan(AFP)

PM Modi's Message on Operation Sindoor

During his address, PM Modi spoke about Operation Sindoor, a military mission launched to avenge the killing of 26 people in Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley. He said, “We all have seen the capability and patience of the country in the last few days. I salute the armed forces, the military, the intelligence agency, and the scientists.” He emphasized the freedom given to the Indian army to eliminate terrorists, adding, “We have given full freedom to the Indian army to wipe out the terrorists, and today every terrorist, every terror organisation knows 'ki hamari behano, betiyon ke maathe se Sindoor hatane ka anjaam kya hota hai.'”

PM Modi also warned Pakistan against nuclear blackmail, clearly stating that India would not bow to such threats. His address highlighted the country’s resolve, reinforcing the belief that “terror and trade, terror and talks cannot go together.”

Reactions from BJP Leaders

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath hailed PM Modi’s speech, calling it a “clear declaration of the policy of 'New India' against terrorism.” He stated, “Operation Sindoor is not just a military action, it is a resolve to protect the honour of our sisters and daughters. Whoever dares to wipe off 'Sindoor' from the foreheads of our mothers and sisters is sure to be reduced to dust…”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah supported the Prime Minister's remarks, saying, “PM Shri @narendramodi Ji today demarcated the boundary for Bharat's enemies through the example of #OperationSindoor, in which our armed forces razed the very edifice of terrorism in Pakistan's backyard.” He praised the armed forces for setting a new norm of zero tolerance for terrorism.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also commended PM Modi’s address, saying it reflected India’s policy against terrorism with “great clarity and determination.” Singh stated, “His address is not only an expression of the nation’s sentiment but also a powerful representation of our country’s military, diplomatic, and moral strength.”

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis noted that PM Modi’s speech signaled a shift in India’s stance, making it clear that the country would not differentiate between terrorists and the governments that harbor them.

Opposition’s Response

While the ruling party leaders praised the Prime Minister’s address, opposition leaders raised questions about certain aspects of the speech. Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit questioned the lack of discussion on a ceasefire after Operation Sindoor’s success, stating, “We were expecting that after showing the place to Pakistan in 2-3 days, the issue of ceasefire would be discussed. The PM said nothing about it. He said all the things already known to the countrymen.”

Pawan Khera from Congress raised concerns over US President Donald Trump's remarks on trade and its connection to military action. Khera said, “We heard US President Donald Trump before PM Modi and that has disturbed every single Indian...When Donald Trump says that it was because of the threat of withdrawal of trade that we stopped, that comes as a very, very shocking declaration or announcement from Donald Trump. We expected the Prime Minister to respond to that and give a clarification to the nation.”

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal, while expressing solidarity with India’s stance against terrorism, criticized PM Modi’s failure to address the issue of Pakistan being declared a terrorist state. He urged the government to take stronger actions, such as telling the US that it cannot trade with Pakistan until the latter is held accountable for harboring terrorism.

CPI MP D Raja also commented on the address, noting that while the speech sent a strong message to Pakistan, several pressing issues remained unaddressed. He remarked, “PM Modi sent a strong message to Pakistan that India cannot be taken for granted and we are united. Having said that, there were many questions from Pahalgam to ceasefire—how the terrorists entered and attacked civilians… America claims that it brokered the ceasefire; they announced it before us, but the PM didn't mention it.”

Conclusion

PM Modi’s address has undoubtedly created a ripple across the political spectrum. The speech reflected India’s firm stance against terrorism while underscoring the government’s military readiness. However, as expected, the opposition has raised concerns about the details of the ceasefire, the role of the United States, and Pakistan's future as a state sponsor of terrorism. Despite these criticisms, the message of strength, resolve, and unity in the face of external threats remains clear and resonates with many Indians.

(Source: NDTV, India Today, Mint)