“Your Turn Will Come”: PM Modi’s Assured Words to the Naval Chief After India–Pakistan Ceasefire

In the hours following the India–Pakistan ceasefire agreement in May 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a memorable remark to Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi: “I have snatched the morsel from your mouth, but your turn will come.” The comment, laced with both regret and reassurance, referred to his decision to halt a planned BrahMos missile strike on Karachi port—a naval operation that had been meticulously prepared as part of India’s strategic retaliation plans.

The naval strike was called off at the final moment, reflecting a deliberate choice to de-escalate while still demonstrating readiness for decisive action. The ceasefire was announced after direct talks between the militaries of the two nations, with India maintaining that the terms were dictated entirely by New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with top military commanders to review Operation Sindoor on May 10. (File) | News18

The Leaders in the War Room

Admiral Tripathi’s disappointment was evident—his forces were poised for a historic naval engagement. Yet, alongside him in the war room, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi shared equally crucial roles. Singh, a fearless test pilot known for his unshakable calm under pressure, and Dwivedi, a resolute ground commander with a quiet but commanding presence, were both commended by the Prime Minister for their readiness and professionalism. Modiji’s parting words to the Navy chief suggested that future operations could well provide the opportunity he was denied this time.

The Ceasefire on India’s Terms

The ceasefire, effective from 5:00 pm IST on May 10, was the outcome of direct Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) talks between India and Pakistan. According to official sources, Pakistan initiated the request for discussions, and no external mediation was involved. The Indian side has repeatedly rejected speculation about US involvement, with Modiji personally informing former President Donald Trump that India “does not and will never accept mediation.”

This decision came amid Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory military campaign launched after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. While some elements of the operation were paused under the ceasefire terms, they were never formally canceled, leaving the armed forces in a heightened state of readiness.

Strategic and Political Calculations

For PM Modi, halting the naval strike was a calculated gamble. Strategically, it sent a dual message: India was willing to explore de-escalation but remained capable of responding with overwhelming force if provoked again. Politically, it allowed Modiji to project himself as both a strong military leader and a statesman capable of restraint.

Operation Sindoor itself became a rallying point in political narratives, with the symbolism of “sindoor” resonating deeply in the public imagination as a metaphor for honour and sacrifice. Commentators have noted that this approach has framed the ceasefire not as a climbdown, but as a tactical victory that preserved India’s initiative.

High-Level Strategic Review

Following the ceasefire announcement, PM Modi convened a high-level meeting attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan, and the three service chiefs. The gathering reviewed operational readiness, potential threats, and the diplomatic trajectory of the truce.

The message emerging from this meeting was clear: India’s posture would remain firm, its preparedness undiminished, and its diplomatic line uncompromising.

Conclusion: A Pause, Not an End

The Prime Minister’s words to Admiral Tripathi captured the essence of this moment in India’s security strategy. While the Navy’s role in May 2025 was curtailed, the assurance of “your turn will come” suggests that India’s military options remain very much on the table. The ceasefire may have halted one strike, but it has not altered the underlying realities of the India–Pakistan equation.

In the corridors of South Block and aboard the decks of India’s warships, the message is understood: the calm is temporary, and readiness is permanent.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, IndiaTV News, News18)