Army Chief Vows to Target Terrorists and Their Support Networks Alike
Gen Upendra Dwivedi Signals Firm Response to Cross-Border Terrorism While Highlighting Strong Deterrence and Improved Relations with China
New Delhi, Nov 17: India will continue to view terrorists and their supporters with equal seriousness and respond firmly to acts of terror, Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi said on Monday, sending a clear message to Pakistan.
Speaking in an interactive session, Gen Dwivedi highlighted that India has adopted a “new normal” in handling Pakistan, warning that continued support for terror groups targeting India will face strong consequences. “India focuses on progress and prosperity. If someone creates obstacles in our course, then we will have to take action against them,” he stated.
He underscored the principle that “talks and terror can’t go together; blood and water cannot follow together,” emphasizing India’s commitment to peaceful dialogue while maintaining readiness to act against terrorists and their sponsors. Gen Dwivedi also referred to Pakistan’s nuclear threat, asserting that India is not intimidated by any form of blackmail.
The Army Chief further said that India’s deterrence capabilities are robust and continue to strengthen under the government’s guidance. On cross-border relations with China, he noted improvements over the past year following leadership-level talks.
Regarding internal security, Gen Dwivedi highlighted the significant decline in terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, adding that the situation in Manipur has improved to the extent that President Droupadi Murmu may consider visiting the state.
