The recent turn of events, where former U.S. President donald trump reportedly called for a ceasefire between india and Pakistan, coupled with Pakistan’s prime minister claiming victory, has left many indians deeply angered and disillusioned. The loss of 26 innocent civilians and numerous brave soldiers has only added to the emotional toll, leading many to question whether the sacrifices were in vain. The abrupt halt in military operations, seemingly under external pressure, has fueled a perception that India’s strategic autonomy is being compromised, and its hard-earned deterrence against cross-border terrorism is weakening.
Historically, india has witnessed strong leadership during times of military conflict, with Prime Ministers like indira gandhi and atal bihari vajpayee taking bold, independent stances. indira gandhi, during the 1971 war, ignored Western pressure, including that from the U.S., and decisively led india to a historic victory that resulted in the creation of Bangladesh. Similarly, during the Kargil conflict in 1999, Vajpayee’s leadership showcased India’s military prowess and global diplomatic finesse, earning worldwide respect without bending to foreign dictations. Even manmohan Singh, despite being seen as a soft-spoken leader, maintained India’s strategic interests firmly, particularly after the 2008 mumbai attacks.
In contrast, many feel that under prime minister Narendra Modi, India’s assertive rhetoric hasn’t always matched its ground actions in conflicts with Pakistan. Despite strong public posturing, the recent ceasefire has raised doubts about whether india is yielding to foreign influence instead of setting its own terms. Critics argue that this perceived lack of resolve sends the wrong message to both adversaries and allies. The indian public, proud of its armed forces and their unmatched bravery, expects a foreign policy that honors the sacrifices made on the battlefield and maintains India's dignity on the global stage.
Historically, india has witnessed strong leadership during times of military conflict, with Prime Ministers like indira gandhi and atal bihari vajpayee taking bold, independent stances. indira gandhi, during the 1971 war, ignored Western pressure, including that from the U.S., and decisively led india to a historic victory that resulted in the creation of Bangladesh. Similarly, during the Kargil conflict in 1999, Vajpayee’s leadership showcased India’s military prowess and global diplomatic finesse, earning worldwide respect without bending to foreign dictations. Even manmohan Singh, despite being seen as a soft-spoken leader, maintained India’s strategic interests firmly, particularly after the 2008 mumbai attacks.
In contrast, many feel that under prime minister Narendra Modi, India’s assertive rhetoric hasn’t always matched its ground actions in conflicts with Pakistan. Despite strong public posturing, the recent ceasefire has raised doubts about whether india is yielding to foreign influence instead of setting its own terms. Critics argue that this perceived lack of resolve sends the wrong message to both adversaries and allies. The indian public, proud of its armed forces and their unmatched bravery, expects a foreign policy that honors the sacrifices made on the battlefield and maintains India's dignity on the global stage.
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