Operation Sindoor was ‘just a trailer’: Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi warns Pakistan

PTC Web Desk: Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Monday issued a strong warning to Pakistan, asserting that India would not hesitate to take firmer action if provoked. Speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, he said Operation Sindoor served merely as a “trailer” and demonstrated India’s readiness to respond decisively to cross-border terrorism.

General Dwivedi emphasised that the Indian Army is fully prepared for any future challenges. “Operation Sindoor lasted just 88 hours. If Pakistan offers another opportunity, we will show it how a responsible neighbour conducts itself,” he stated.

Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7 following the deadly Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives, targeted terror launchpads across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). It triggered intense cross-border exchanges until Pakistan sought a ceasefire on May 10, after which both nations agreed to halt firing.

Reiterating India’s firm stand that dialogue and terrorism cannot coexist, the Army Chief accused Pakistan of continuing to support state-sponsored terrorism. “Deterrence is effective only when backed by political will, confidence in military strength, and the necessary capabilities. Today, India possesses all three,” he said.

Reflecting on the significant changes in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370, Gen Dwivedi noted a sharp decline in terrorism and recruitment. “Earlier, students were unsure about which flag to draw on Independence Day. That confusion has vanished. Since December 2019, terror activities have dropped drastically,” he said. According to him, 31 terrorists were eliminated recently, and 61% of them were Pakistani nationals. Only one local youth was recruited during this period, and he was apprehended.

Without directly naming Pakistan, the Army Chief said it was alarming when a nation promotes terrorism. “If someone obstructs our path, we will act. Our stance remains clear: talks cannot proceed alongside terror. We urge a peaceful approach, and we are willing to cooperate. But until then, terrorists and their sponsors will face a strong response,” he added.

General Dwivedi further highlighted the evolving nature of warfare, pointing out that modern battles span multiple domains and their duration remains unpredictable. “We must ensure sustained readiness and long-term logistical capability,” he said.