Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared Tuesday that India seeks peace but will never compromise on border security or national interests, while praising recent military strikes conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
“We want peace, but we do not compromise on the security of our borders,” PM Modi stated during the state-level commemoration of the 350th Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom day) of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru.
Operation Sindoor Reference
The Prime Minister commended the recently launched Operation Sindoor, describing the retaliatory strikes following the Pahalgam attack as demonstrating India’s resolve. He asserted that “the whole world has witnessed that the new India neither fears, nor stops, nor bows before terrorism,” emphasizing the country’s approach of moving forward “with full strength, courage, and clarity.”
Spiritual Heritage Connections
PM Modi highlighted his government’s efforts to strengthen connections to Sikh heritage, noting the recent arrival of three original forms of the Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan as “a moment of pride for every Indian.” He described consistent governmental work to reinforce spiritual and cultural links to Sikh traditions.
Guru’s Social Impact
The Prime Minister recalled Guru Tegh Bahadur’s journey from Anandpur Sahib, noting how he connected numerous villages through Sangat (congregation), expanding devotion while transforming social conduct. Modi observed that communities along the Guru’s path abandoned intoxicant cultivation and dedicated themselves to spiritual pursuits.
Contemporary Social Message
Drawing parallels to current challenges, Modi emphasized that following Guru Maharaj’s teachings, society, families, and youth could wage decisive battles against addiction, potentially eradicating the problem at its roots.
“The teachings of Shri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib should become the foundation of peace in our conduct, balance in our policies, and trust in our society,” he stated, describing this as the occasion’s essence.
PM Modi highlighted that nationwide observations of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom day reflect how the Guru
