Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a powerful and unyielding message to Pakistan, said that any future aggression will be answered with a much stronger response.
"Ab goli ka jawab gole se milega (now we will respond to bullets with shells)," Modi asserted on Saturday while speaking at the 'Women Empowerment Maha Sammelan' in Bhopal.
The function, organized to celebrate the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, gave the Prime Minister a strong platform to emphasize national security as well as empowerment of women.
PM Modi called 'Operation Sindoor' a reflection of India's unflinching bravery and a demonstration of its determination in protecting national sovereignty. Commenting on recent terror attacks at Pahalgam, he stated the attacks were not only on innocent citizens but on the unity and cultural identity of India itself.
Terrorists dared challenge the mettle of Indian women — an action that proved to be their undoing, along with their supporters," the Prime Minister stated.
He also emphasized the cultural importance of sindoor (vermillion), characterizing it as a symbol of strength, commitment, and sacred obligation in Indian culture. Citing Hindu mythology, he invoked the example of Lord Hanuman's love for Lord Rama — signaled by sindoor — as a demonstration of unshakeable commitment and selfless love.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, PM Modi declared the operation to be the most successful counter-terror operation in the history of the country. PM Modi appreciated the Indian military for taking swift action to eliminate the terror hideouts deep within the enemy territory.
India will not accept proxy wars fought using terrorism anymore. The forces of justice will not only target the perpetrators but also the enablers and supporters of such actions," he announced, stating that "the price of supporting such atrocities will be high, and our response to any act of aggression will be unconditional.
The Prime Minister next spoke of the legacy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, praising her as a social reformist pioneer and a bold leader. She was commended for supporting women's rights, such as property rights and widow remarriage — pioneering movements for her era.
PM Modi also reminded that Ahilyabai had created a group of women warriors in the Malwa army and initiated village-level women's security units, demonstrating her strong commitment to empowerment and security.
"Ahilyabai Holkar's name reminds us of profound reverence. In an age when the world seldom heard of women's rights, she was a visionary leader who went against the norms and challenged tradition," he stated.
In a pointed remark, PM Modi noted that while the West often criticises India on issues related to women, it overlooks India’s rich heritage of female leadership and valor, as exemplified by Ahilyabai Holkar.
"Her legacy is not only of good governance, but of nation-building — a testament to the potential of women in shaping India's future," PM Modi said, finishing his speech with a wish that her blessings will continue to steer the country.
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