New Delhi | May 12, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation for the first time since the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, making it unmistakably clear that India will only talk to Pakistan about Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and not about trade, terrorism, or peace under threat.
In a bold and emotionally charged speech, PM Modi condemned the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 innocent civilians were brutally killed by Pakistan-backed militants. Modi said the militants attempted to “wipe the sindoor off the foreheads of our mothers and sisters”, but India responded by destroying their terror headquarters.
Only Dialogue on PoK, Not Peace Under Terror
PM Modi categorically stated, “If there are talks with Pakistan, they will only be about PoK. Nothing else.” He further emphasized that terrorism, trade, and talks cannot go hand-in-hand, drawing a firm line on diplomatic engagements until Islamabad acts decisively against terror outfits operating from its soil.
Indus Water Treaty Stance Unchanged: ‘Blood and Water Can’t Flow Together’
Reiterating India’s long-standing position post-Pahalgam attack, PM Modi confirmed that India will uphold its decision to suspend the Indus Water Treaty. “Khoon aur paani ek saath nahi beh sakte (blood and water can’t flow together),” he asserted, signaling a tougher water policy aimed at pressuring Pakistan economically and strategically.
India’s Response to Nuclear Threats: ‘We Are Not Afraid’
In a significant rebuttal to repeated nuclear blackmail threats from Pakistan, PM Modi declared, “India will not bow to any nuclear threats. We are not afraid.” His strong words come amid rising security tensions and nuclear posturing from across the border, following India’s retaliatory strikes on terror camps.
‘Terrorists’ Headquarters Destroyed’ in Pakistan: PM on Operation Sindoor
Detailing the success of Operation Sindoor, PM Modi revealed that on May 6, Indian forces carried out precision strikes on terrorist camps and training centers inside Pakistan. He described these attacks as surgical and swift, eliminating key hideouts that housed those responsible for the Pahalgam massacre.
This response came after Pakistan tried to launch drone and missile attacks on India’s border areas on May 7, 8, and 9, all of which were effectively neutralized by Indian defenses. In retaliation, Indian forces destroyed Pakistan’s air defense systems and military installations, further tilting the strategic advantage in India’s favor.
‘Pakistan and Terrorism Cannot Be Seen Separately Anymore’
Directly naming Pakistan, Modi lambasted its long history of harboring terrorists, stating that the world can now clearly see the nexus between Islamabad and extremist groups. “Pakistan and terrorism can no longer be seen as separate entities,” he added, indicating a shift in India’s foreign and defense policy posture.
A Tribute to Indian Forces and the Nation’s Resilience
Ending his speech on a powerful note, PM Modi paid tribute to the Indian armed forces, calling their valor, courage, and sacrifices a gift to every Indian mother and sister. He acknowledged their readiness to take action again if necessary, hinting that India’s military remains on high alert should cross-border threats persist.
The Spark Behind Operation Sindoor: The Pahalgam Tragedy
The turning point leading to Operation Sindoor was the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, where militants murdered holidaying families after identifying their religion. The PM described it as an attack not just on people, but on India’s social fabric.
With Operation Sindoor sending a clear signal to Pakistan and the international community, India appears committed to a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism. The possibility of escalation remains, but India has made it clear that its sovereignty and citizens will not be held hostage to terror threats or diplomatic blackmail.
