Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday declared that Operation Sindoor served as a powerful message to the world that India will respond with strength when provoked. He connected the government's counter-terrorism action to the resolute leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Patel's Philosophy and a Modern-Day Response
Speaking at the 'Sardar Sabha' in Vadodara's Sadhli village during a Unity March marking Patel's 150th birth anniversary, Singh stated the operation proved India's readiness to act when peace overtures are disregarded. "India showed the world through Operation Sindoor that it is capable of giving a befitting reply to those who do not understand the language of peace and goodwill," he said, according to PTI reports.
He lauded the armed forces for the mission's success, noting global recognition of Indian soldiers' bravery. Singh emphasized that Patel, while believing in dialogue, never shied from a firm stance when necessary, citing his crucial role in Hyderabad's integration. The minister asserted the current government has embodied this same principle through Operation Sindoor, a topic of global discussion.
Criticism of Nehru and Defence of 'Real Secularism'
Singh targeted former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, alleging he planned to use public funds to construct the Babri Masjid, a move allegedly stopped by Patel. He contrasted this with the restoration of the Somnath Temple, funded by public donations of Rs 30 lakh.
"Similarly, the government didn't give a single rupee to construct the Ram Temple in Ayodhya," Singh stated, calling this an example of what he termed "real secularism."
Upholding Patel's Vision: Article 370 and Defence Goals
The Defence Minister said the Modi government had strengthened Patel's vision of unity by abrogating Article 370. He argued that following Patel's approach during Kashmir's accession would have prevented decades of conflict.
Shifting focus to national security, Singh highlighted Patel's advocacy for indigenous defence capability, a path the government is advancing through Make in India. He announced ambitious targets: Rs 3 lakh crore in defence production and Rs 50,000 crore in exports by 2029, revealing that defence exports have surged nearly 34-fold in the last 11 years.
He also mentioned the proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill 2025, which mandates ethical conduct for high officials, including automatic removal if bail isn't secured within 30 days after arrest on serious charges.
The event was attended by senior leaders including Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
