PM MODI ALSO ACTED AS A MILITARY COMMANDER IN OPERATION SINDOOR: Dr JAGDEESH CHANDRA

In the latest offering of the JC Show, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra emphasised that ‘Operation Sindoor’ successfully avenged the Pahalgam attack, with over 100 militants eliminated and significant damage to Pakistan’s military infrastructure. He lauded PM Narendra Modi’s leadership, highlighting his decisive actions and strong stance against nuclear blackmail. Dr Chandra also criticised President Trump’s premature claim of mediating the ceasefire, viewing it as unprofessional. The support from Congress leaders for Modi’s policy indicates a shift in political dynamics. While the ceasefire has been agreed upon, its future depends on Pakistan’s adherence to commitments, with India remaining vigilant and prepared to respond to any threats. The Indian Army’s success in eliminating key terrorist figures like Masood Azhar’s entire family and IC814 hijacker Yusuf Azhar. Dr Chandra concluded by voicing public sentiment for focused military operations against high-profile terrorists like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar in future missions. Excerpts... (Part-1)

• Do you agree with the assessment that “Mission Accomplished... the war against terror continues”?
  Dr Jagdeesh Chandra: Absolutely, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise. In just 14 days, justice was served for the Pahalgam attack. Nine major terrorist bases were destroyed, over 100 militants were killed, and more than 50 Pakistani soldiers and officers lost their lives. Pakistan was compelled to kneel, seeking ceasefire through both India and the United States. Thus, we can confidently state: “Mission Accomplished, justice delivered; Pakistan pays back for its Pahalgam misadventure.” Now, the second phase, “War against terror continues,” is crucial. We are eagerly awaiting the commencement of “Sindoor-2.”

• Do you believe that in this entire battle against terrorism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s image as an “Iron Man” has been reinforced?
  Absolutely, you are correct. He was already considered an ‘Iron Man,’ but this operation has rejuvenated that image. His decisive actions, clear communication, and unwavering stance against terrorism have reinforced his reputation. He has effectively conveyed to the world that this is his message against terror. In summary, the ‘Iron Man’ image has been revitalised and renewed. Once again, he stands as the ‘Iron Man’ of this country.

• Don’t you think that in formulating and executing the strategy for Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Modi appeared not just as the Prime Minister but also as an Army Commander, a role that resonated well with the public?
  Yes, he indeed acted as an Army Commander. From day one, he was deeply involved in policy formation and the execution of military strategies. He maintained direct communication with army generals, the National Security Advisor, the Defence Secretary, and the Home Secretary. He was actively engaged in the decision-making process. He granted the army full autonomy, expressing complete trust and delegation. The army reciprocated this trust, demonstrating confidence in his leadership. Prime Minister Modi is immensely popular within the army, respected by everyone from jawans to generals. His affection and respect for them are mutual. During his visit to Adampur, the scene resembled that of an army general rather than a Prime Minister. He garnered immense love and affection from the troops. His appearance in army attire was impressive, and he was well-received. In this operation, he not only served as the Prime Minister but also demonstrated the qualities of an efficient and brilliant Army General.

• In his speech, Prime Minister Modi stated unequivocally that India will not be blackmailed by Pakistan’s nuclear threats. What do you think will be the long-term implications of this warning?
  This is indeed very significant. Prime Minister Modi aims to expose Pakistan’s nuclear bluff. Whenever an opportunity arises, Pakistan threatens with nuclear escalation, leading to pressure on India from the international community, especially the United States. This time, however, India did not yield. Pakistan’s nuclear threat was a bluff, and the US fell for it. However, the situation reached a point where even the Pakistani army desired a ceasefire, which eventually occurred. Prime Minister Modi harbours a resolve that such blackmail will not succeed again. He is determined to ensure that the US does not succumb to Pakistan’s nuclear threats in the future. The question now is how to neutralize Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities. The army is considering mechanisms to destroy nuclear-capable aircraft before they can launch. This is a serious matter, and Prime Minister Modi is deeply committed to it. In the coming days, India is expected to make significant decisions or develop strategies to neutralize Pakistan’s nuclear establishment. Prime Minister Modi’s threat is serious, and he is prepared to ensure that Pakistan’s bluff does not succeed again.

• US President Donald Trump claimed credit for brokering the ceasefire and offered to mediate in the Kashmir issue, which Prime Minister Modi has firmly rejected. How do you view this development?
  This is truly unfortunate and immature on President Trump’s part. He has no business declaring himself a self-styled ambassador, peacemaker, and mediator between India and Pakistan. His actions have seriously embarrassed his close friend, Prime Minister Modi. When both leaders were about to announce the ceasefire, Trump tweeted just 10 minutes earlier, claiming credit. This is professional misconduct. Later, when Prime Minister Modi was addressing the nation, Trump tweeted again, undermining the announcement. This behaviour is unbecoming of a president and a senior leader. Trump violated diplomatic norms and principles of dignity in politics. He attempted to take credit for something that was already in motion, and his actions have been widely criticised.

• Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram and Congress leader Shashi Tharoor have praised Prime Minister Modi’s war policy. Does this indicate a shift in political alignments?
  Prime Minister Modi’s aura is such that even prominent leaders are drawn towards it. Chidambaram has expressed support for Modi’s policy of selectively targeting terrorist bases, stating that national interests differ from political interests. This has surprised many, given his usual stance. Similarly, during a recent event in Kerala, Shashi Tharoor was present when Prime Minister Modi made a remark that seemed to acknowledge Tharoor’s presence. This has led to discussions about Tharoor’s alignment with Modi’s policies. Both leaders have openly supported Modi’s war policy, which has taken many by surprise. It remains to be seen how this dynamic evolves, but their support indicates a potential shift in political alignments.

• What is the inside story behind the ceasefire? Why was Pakistan compelled to seek a ceasefire through both India and the United States?
  The inside story is quite clear, despite attempts by former US President Donald Trump to distort it for personal credit. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has now released a minute-by-minute account, clarifying what transpired. According to the available information, the Indian Air Force destroyed Pakistan’s air defence systems and caused significant damage to their airports. This led to an imminent fear within the Pakistani establishment that India was preparing for a major offensive within 24 hours. In a state of panic, Pakistan’s bluff—its recurring nuclear threat—was activated. Reportedly, General Munir of Pakistan directly contacted the U.S. Secretary of State, warning that a nuclear strike was possible. The U.S., treating this as alarming intelligence, reacted swiftly. President Trump was informed and told to intervene to prevent a catastrophic nuclear escalation. Parallel to this, around 10:30 AM, Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) reached out to his Indian counterpart expressing a willingness to negotiate a ceasefire. A dialogue was established, and by 3:30 PM, India’s senior leadership was informed of Pakistan’s formal proposal. Before Prime Minister Narendra Modi could issue an official response, at 5:25 PM, Trump tweeted that he had stayed up all night to broker the agreement and save millions of lives. This move was considered premature and in poor diplomatic taste. The ceasefire was naturally progressing between the two nations and was expected to be jointly announced. However, Trump interjected twice— both times claiming undue credit. His second tweet used what many considered rude and undiplomatic language, suggesting he had warned both countries of trade consequences if they didn’t comply. In truth, Trump played no decisive role. He merely preempted the natural outcome to portray himself as a hero in the ceasefire process, which he was not.

• What is your assessment of the future of this ceasefire?
  The future of the ceasefire hinges entirely on who fires the first bullet— whether from a terrorist faction or directly by Pakistan. The moment that happens, the ceasefire ends. This time, it appears Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in no mood to heed external pressures. He seems visibly angry over recent developments, particularly Trump’s conduct. If visuals are any indication, his demeanour has hardened. As for the duration of any renewed conflict, that too depends on Pakistan. When will it violate the ceasefire? When will it fire the first shot? And how will India respond? Interestingly, an astrologer had recently predicted that the war would last 31 days. The first part of that prediction held: a ceasefire agreement came on the 9th. Now all eyes are on what might happen around the 18th or 26th. Ultimately, it is Pakistan’s behaviour that will determine the longevity of peace.

• In India’s retaliatory strikes, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar’s entire family was reportedly eliminated. Similarly, Yusuf Azhar— an accused in the Kandahar IC814 hijacking—was also killed. How do you view these achievements by the Indian Army?
  Absolutely, we all salute the Indian Army and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These outcomes were part of a well-coordinated counterterrorism strategy. Masood Azhar’s entire family—14 members—were neutralized. He was reportedly devastated, even expressing that it might have been better if he had died as well. However, fate had it otherwise—for now. There is strong belief that he won’t escape next time. Yusuf Azhar, involved in the IC814 hijacking, was successfully eliminated. These two individuals were key targets under India’s anti-terror strategy. There is widespread public sentiment that India should pursue a more targeted approach, akin to how Israel eliminated Hassan Nasrallah. Many hope that figures like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar will meet a similar fate through focused military action. So yes, these were major achievements. While one was taken out along with his family, the other was killed in direct action. Let’s see how and when the Indian Army brings remaining high-value targets to justice.

TO BE CONTINUED...

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