“24th Kargil Day: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute, Vows to Defend India’s Dignity”
Drass: On the occasion of the 24th Kargil Day, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh made a strong statement, asserting that India is prepared to cross the Line of Control (LoC) if necessary to uphold its honor and dignity. The LoC, which serves as the de facto border between India and Pakistan in the disputed region of Kashmir, has been a focal point of tensions between the two nations for decades.
Addressing a gathering at the War Memorial in Drass, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated, “If we did not cross the LoC at that time, it does not mean that we could not cross the LoC.” He emphasized that India had the capability to cross the LoC in the past, has the capability at present, and would not hesitate to do so in the future if the need arises.
The 24th Kargil Day marks the anniversary of the Kargil War, a significant conflict between India and Pakistan that took place in 1999. Paying tribute to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the war, Singh recalled that the Kargil war was imposed on India when Pakistan launched a surprise attack, stabbing the nation in the back.
उस समय अगर हमने LoC पार नहीं किया, तो इसका मतलब यह नहीं कि हम LoC पार नहीं कर सकते थे। हम LoC पार कर सकते थे, हम LoC पार कर सकते हैं, और जरूरत पड़ी तो भविष्य में LoC पार करेंगे। मैं इसे फिर से दोहराना चाहूँगा, कि हम LoC पार कर सकते थे, हम LoC पार कर सकते हैं, और जरूरत पड़ी तो…
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) July 26, 2023
In his address, Rajnath Singh also drew parallels with the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, citing the crucial role played by common citizens in supporting the soldiers. He called upon ordinary citizens to be prepared to extend their assistance if a similar situation arises in India. The Defense Minister’s remarks come as a reminder of the importance of unity and national spirit in times of conflict.
VIDEO | Union Defence Minister @rajnathsingh pays homage to Kargil War martyrs at War Memorial in Ladakh's Drass on the occasion of 24th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. pic.twitter.com/xUpVuDPWUL
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 26, 2023
“We are well aware that with you protecting our borders, no one dares to even cast a glance towards India. Throughout history, from the time of independence until today, your bravery has consistently filled the nation with pride. Not only during the Kargil War, but in various instances, you have displayed valor and brought glory to our country, he added.
On this solemn occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I extend my heartfelt assurance to the families and well-wishers of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the Kargil War. Their sacrifice and memory will forever remain etched in our hearts. The National War Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of our unwavering commitment to honor their heroism.
Rajnath Singh said, Today, I wish to address every citizen of our great nation. Our paramount priority is the honor and dignity of our motherland, and we are willing to go to any extent to safeguard it. As we face challenges, it is crucial to remember that in any war, not only the armed forces, but the entire nation is involved. Every citizen, from farmers to doctors, engineers, scientists, and professionals from diverse fields, plays a vital role.
In the ever-changing landscape of warfare, we must be prepared not only to support indirectly but also directly, should the need arise. I firmly believe that the public needs to be mentally prepared to actively participate in times of national urgency. Let us stand united and ready, offering our unwavering support to the armed forces whenever our nation calls for it. Just as every soldier is an Indian, every Indian should be ever prepared to embrace the role of a soldier if the situation demands, he said.
Together, we shall ensure the safety, security, and prosperity of our beloved nation. Jai Hind!”
The region of Kashmir has been a longstanding point of contention between India and Pakistan, and the Line of Control continues to witness sporadic hostilities. Singh’s statement serves as a clear message of India’s determination to defend its sovereignty and safeguard its honor.
As the nation observes the 24th Kargil Day, citizens across India join in paying their respects to the brave soldiers who fought valiantly in the Kargil War and reaffirm their commitment to the nation’s security and integrity.