Armed forces prepared to deal with any threat; dismisses fuel shortage concerns
New Delhi, Apr 02 (KNO): Amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday cautioned Pakistan against attempting any provocation, stating that India would respond in a “decisive and unprecedented” manner if challenged.
Addressing a Sainik Samman Sammelan in Kerala, Singh, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that the “evolving geopolitical situation could tempt our neighbour to exploit the moment,” but asserted that India remained fully prepared to counter any such move.
“Our neighbour, in the current circumstances, may attempt a misadventure. If that happens, India’s response will be firm and decisive,” he said, without naming Pakistan directly.
His remarks come ahead of the first anniversary of the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 25 civilians were killed by terrorists. India avenged the terror attack by launching ‘Operation Sindoor’ and destroying nine terror camps deep inside Pakistan.
Singh said the ‘Operation Sindoor’, launched in May last year, demonstrated India’s resolve against terrorism and was “not over yet.”
He claimed that Indian forces had inflicted significant damage on terror infrastructure across the border within a short span.
Referring to past retaliatory actions, Singh said India had consistently responded strongly to terror attacks. “From the surgical strikes after Uri to the air strikes following Pulwama, and now Operation Sindoor, India has delivered clear messages against terrorism,” he said.
During Operation Sindoor, Indian forces targeted multiple terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, triggering a brief but intense military standoff that ended with a ceasefire after four days.
The Defence Minister also addressed concerns over energy supplies amid tensions in the Middle East, dismissing reports of shortages. He said India had adequate reserves of fuel and gas and was equipped to manage any disruption.
“There is no shortage of petrol, diesel or gas in the country. India is prepared to deal with any potential energy crisis,” Singh said, cautioning against misinformation that could create panic.
He added that Indian naval forces were ensuring safe passage for the country’s oil shipments through sensitive maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
Touching upon the safety of Indian nationals abroad, particularly in West Asia, Singh said the government was closely monitoring the situation and would take all necessary steps to protect its citizens.
The minister also criticised opposition parties for what he described as “petty politics” during a time of global uncertainty, urging unity in matters of national security.
Singh reiterated that the Pahalgam attack was an assault not only on lives but also on the country’s social fabric, and said India’s actions since then reflect its commitment to countering terrorism in all forms—(KNO)