Indian military rhetoric

The army’s top brass has denounced provocative statements by the Indian military leadership regarding aggression towards Pakistan. The irresponsible statements have been termed a routine rhetoric with implications on regional peace and stability.

The Corps Commanders Conference presided over by army chief Gen Bajwa reviewed the geo-strategic, regional and national security environment, particularly the situation along the borders. India was reminded that the armed forces will not compromise on national security and deterrence at any cost.

The recent statements by Indian military leaders have been rather preposterous to say the least. Indian army chief Gen Naravane, who was appointed last month, threatened to cross the Line of Control to invade AJK if instructed by the Indian parliament. India earlier claimed that sixty Afghan militants have entered into occupied Kashmir through Pakistan to carry out subversive attacks, sending a high alert across the border areas.

It has become a norm for Indian military leaders to issue threatening statements against Pakistan. Former Indian army chief Bipin Rawat also issued similar statements before he was elevated to the newly-created position as Chief of Defence Staff. Now he advises the Modi government to continue the rhetoric as it adds fodder to the public and retains the ruling BJP’s popularity.

Pakistan has already warned that India may resort to a false flag operation to divert attention from the internal turmoil. There have been massive protests against divisive policies of the BJP government. A false flag operation will expose India’s war hysteria and any adventurism will be dealt with a befitting response by Pakistan. The Indian army chief should recall the result of their Balakot adventurism which lead to Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan being captured and their million-dollar MiG-21 aircraft being destroyed.

The Indian military needs to realise that provocative anti-Pakistan statements serve no purpose other than affecting regional peace and stability. Perhaps India should concentrate at the myriad of its own problems rather than opening a new front against Pakistan.