India Strikes Back: PM Modi Says Enemies Learn When ‘Sindoor’ Turns to ‘Barood’
PM Modi Delivers Fiery Message to Pakistan in Rajasthan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful message to Pakistan during a public address in Bikaner, Rajasthan, on Thursday, May 22, 2025. This was his first public appearance in the state since Operation Sindoor, the Indian military strike on Pakistani terror infrastructure launched in retaliation for the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22.
The Prime Minister emphasized the consequences of India’s military action, saying, “The world and the enemies of the country have seen what happens when ‘sindoor’ turns into ‘barood’ [gunpowder].” He added, “Those out to wipe out ‘sindoor’ were reduced to dust.” Modi’s statement, made in front of an enthusiastic audience, was a clear reference to the symbolic significance of ‘sindoor,’ a traditional red powder worn by married Hindu women, and its transformation into the destructive power of gunpowder.
Unwavering Resolve Against Terrorism
Modi sent a strong message of deterrence, stating that India will not be intimidated by nuclear threats and will respond forcefully to any act of terrorism. “The time and methods will be decided by our armed forces,” he declared.
He also dismissed any possibility of dialogue with Pakistan, saying, “There will be neither trade nor talks with Pakistan; if talks, then only about Pakistan occupied Kashmir.”
Operation Sindoor: A Triumph of Indian Forces
The Prime Minister praised the Indian armed forces for their decisive actions during Operation Sindoor. He highlighted the operation’s success, stating that the Indian forces created such a “trap” that Pakistan was “forced to go down on its knees.” He also pointed to the damage inflicted on Pakistan’s Rahimyar Khan air base, while emphasizing that India’s Nal air base remained undamaged.
Modi reiterated India’s stance that Pakistan cannot win a direct confrontation with India and has resorted to terrorism as a weapon.
Background: Escalating Tensions Between India and Pakistan
The recent escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan began with the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 people. India responded with targeted strikes on Pakistani terror infrastructure on May 7, under the codename Operation Sindoor. This action was followed by Pakistani attempts to attack Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10. The Indian forces launched a counter-attack on Pakistani military installations, leading to four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes.
The situation finally de-escalated on May 10 after an understanding was reached between India and Pakistan to end the military confrontation.
