PM Modi Condemns Pakistan’s State-Backed Terrorism, Vows Firm Response to Cross-Border Attacks

 Gandhinagar, May 26 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday issued a strong rebuke to Pakistan, accusing the neighbouring country of using terrorism as a deliberate strategy of warfare rather than a mere proxy tactic. Addressing a public gathering during his two-day visit to Gujarat, the Prime Minister asserted that India would no longer remain silent in the face of attacks aimed at destabilising its peace.

“We seek peace and wish for others to live in peace too. But when our strength is tested through a proxy war, silence is not an option,” Mr. Modi said in Gandhinagar, underscoring a significant shift in India's posture toward cross-border terrorism.

Referring to a recent military operation, the Prime Minister revealed that India had conducted a swift and targeted offensive against multiple terrorist camps across the border. “Earlier, we called it a proxy war. But after the events post-May 6, we can no longer describe it that way,” he said. “We dismantled several of their terror camps in just 22 minutes. It was a decisive response, executed in front of cameras, so that no one in our country would need to ask for proof.”

In a direct reference to state involvement in terrorism, Mr. Modi pointed to video footage showing funerals of slain militants in Pakistan conducted with official honours. “These funerals, with coffins draped in Pakistan’s national flag and formal military salutes, expose the reality: this is not a proxy war. It is Pakistan’s official war strategy,” he said. “And India will respond accordingly.”

The Prime Minister also revisited the historical roots of the Kashmir conflict, criticising past political decisions. “After partition in 1947, the first terror attack occurred in Kashmir. Pakistan occupied one part of the region. Sardar Patel had advised that the Army should not stop until all of Kashmir was reclaimed. But that course was not taken—and for 75 years, we have paid the price,” he said.

Highlighting recent developments, Mr. Modi referred to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, in which 26 tourists were killed. According to survivor testimonies, the attackers interrogated victims about their faith, targeting and executing those who identified as non-Muslims.

In response, India launched “Operation Sindoor” during the night of May 7–8, targeting militant hideouts and infrastructure believed to be operating from Pakistani territory. According to Indian intelligence reports, over 100 militants were neutralized during the operation.

“The Indian Army has defeated Pakistan on every battlefield. Pakistan now understands it cannot win a conventional war against India. But it must also know that terrorism as a strategy will be met with equally resolute force,” the Prime Minister said.

India’s assertive stance marks a new chapter in its counterterrorism doctrine, with leadership signalling a zero-tolerance approach and the clear intent to pursue justice beyond its borders when national security is at stake.