Now the Indian Army Responds to Bullets with Shells and Hits Back in Enemy Territory

Vishal Rana, Hamirpur

Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur, addressing a public gathering at an event organized by Sarv Kalyankari Trust on Indian Service Day in Sujanpur’s Chougan, said that India is among the world’s strongest nations today and stands resilient before the world due to the significant contribution of its armed forces. While we rest comfortably during extreme weather, our army stands ready to protect us, enduring even the harshest geographical conditions without hesitation.

To honor the valor, courage, and sacrifice of the armed forces, Army Day is celebrated annually on January 15. It was on this day in 1949 that Field Marshal Cariappa took command of the Indian Army. This day is not only a tribute to the bravery, discipline, and sacrifice of the Indian Army but also an occasion to awaken patriotism and pride in every Indian citizen’s heart. It reminds us of the immense contributions of our soldiers to our freedom and security.

This day represents the courage and determination of the army and stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to the nation’s security. Himachal Pradesh, known as the “Land of the Brave,” has not only contributed valiant soldiers to the Indian Army but has also brought pride to the entire nation through their courage and sacrifice. In almost every village and household in Himachal, someone is or has been a part of the Indian Army. This state symbolizes valor and patriotism.

Speaking as the chief guest at the event, the Leader of the Opposition stated that the government under Narendra Modi has given the army full freedom to boost their morale. In the new India, the army does not need permission to respond to enemies. If the enemy fires bullets, our army responds with shells. Under the leadership of our Prime Minister, the Indian Army now enters enemy territories when required to eliminate threats. The army is replying to the enemies in a language they understand.

To address challenges faced by the army, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked extensively at all levels. Be it modernization issues, personal salaries, allowances, or pensions, all have been resolved under Modi’s leadership, which is crucial for the army’s pride and respect. The long-pending “One Rank, One Pension” demand was fulfilled by Narendra Modi.

The event was presided over by retired Lieutenant General B.S. Jaswal, and Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur attended as a special guest. Other dignitaries included Kargil hero Brigadier Khushal Chand, Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan, MLAs Vipin Parmar, Sudhir Sharma, Inder Dutt Lakhanpal, Inder Singh Gandhi, former MLA Rajendra Rana, retired military officers, and local residents, who added grandeur to the program. Jairam Thakur, along with other guests, also honored several retired military officers.

After the program concluded, while responding to questions from journalists, the Leader of the Opposition commented on internal conflicts within the Congress government. He stated that Congress’s leadership faced challenges even from its own members, with six Congress MLAs distancing themselves from the Chief Minister. This led to Congress losing the Rajya Sabha elections and all four Lok Sabha seats in the state. Even the Chief Minister failed to retain his constituency.

Thakur criticized the Congress government, saying it has failed on all fronts and halted the state’s development. He challenged Chief Minister Sukhu to fulfill the guarantees made during elections, such as providing 300 units of free electricity. He claimed that if elections were held today, Congress would struggle to reach even double-digit seats.