New Delhi, Sept 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recalled the Indian Army’s 2016 surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC), saying the operation demonstrated India’s firm determination to confront cross-border terrorism.
Addressing the nation through his monthly ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, Modi said the surgical strikes, conducted on September 28-29, 2016, marked a significant moment in India’s counter terrorism efforts.
“A major historical achievement of India is set to complete 10 years in just a day—the surgical strike. Ten years ago, on September 28–29, 2016, the Indian Army conducted a surgical strike on terrorist hideouts in PoJK. The world was astonished by the manner in which our brave soldiers crossed the Line of Control (LoC) to take action against terrorism,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the operation demonstrated a determined approach to dealing with terrorist threats and conveyed a clear message about India’s response to attacks originating across the border.
He also referred to the Balakot airstrike and Operation Sindoor while highlighting India’s actions against terrorism over the past decade.
“Over the past decade from the Balakot airstrike to ‘Operation Sindoor’ India has repeatedly sent a clear message: if terrorists dare to cast a hostile eye on India, they will face a befitting response,” Modi said.
The 2016 operation followed the deadly terror attack on an Army camp in Uri and targeted terrorist launch pads across the LoC, according to Indian authorities. The strikes were presented by the government as a response to threats from groups operating from across the border.
Modi also spoke about the ongoing Census, describing it as a national responsibility and stressing that citizens have an important role in ensuring the exercise is completed successfully.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came ahead of the 10th anniversary of the 2016 military operation, which has remained a significant reference point in discussions surrounding India’s counter terrorism policy.