Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday issued a stern warning to Pakistan over the long-standing Sir Creek border dispute, underlining concerns about Pakistan’s intentions amidst expanding military activities near the region. Speaking at a military base in Gujarat’s Bhuj, he emphasised India’s continued efforts to resolve the issue through dialogue but expressed doubts over Islamabad’s sincerity even after 78 years of independence. At the same time, he lauded the Indian armed forces’ successful execution of Operation Sindoor, reiterating India’s resolve in countering terrorism while exercising restraint against full-scale war.

The Sir Creek Dispute

Sir Creek, a 96-km tidal estuary in the Rann of Kutch area along the Gujarat coastline, remains a hotly contested maritime boundary between India and Pakistan. The dispute arises from differing interpretations between the two countries regarding the delimitation of the boundary waters and territorial rights. Rajnath Singh pointed out that despite seven decades since independence, the basic issue remains unresolved because of what he called “flawed and unclear” intentions on the Pakistani side. He highlighted Pakistan’s recent military build-up in the areas adjacent to Sir Creek as indicative of these intentions, raising fresh concerns about escalating tensions around this strategically significant zone.

The Defence Minister remarked that India had repeatedly attempted to settle the dispute through dialogue but faced persistent hurdles. He added that the Indian Army and Border Security Force remain vigilant in guarding the borders in this sensitive region. Singh issued a tough warning, saying any misadventure by Pakistan in the Sir Creek sector would be met with a “decisive response” powerful enough to “change history and geography.”

Rajnath Singh’s Firm Message on Military Preparedness

Reflecting on past conflicts, Singh recalled the 1965 war when the Indian Army demonstrated its capability by reaching Lahore, suggesting that the route to Karachi also passes through the Sir Creek area in 2025. His remarks were a clear assertion of India’s military readiness and a reminder of its capacity to retaliate strongly against any hostile move. He emphasised the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army and BSF in securing the borders and expressed confidence that India’s armed forces are capable of inflicting heavy damage if challenged.

Singh’s warning highlighted the strategic importance of Sir Creek not just as a territorial dispute but as a potential flashpoint impacting broader security considerations between India and Pakistan. His statements came amid a period of increased military activity from Pakistan near this region, which India views as provocative and destabilising.

Operation Sindoor

Alongside addressing the Sir Creek issue, Rajnath Singh also spoke about Operation Sindoor, launched by India in response to terror attacks. He commended the seamless joint operation carried out by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy, which successfully targeted terrorist infrastructure across Pakistan-controlled territories. Singh noted that although Pakistan attempted to breach India’s defence system during the operation, Indian forces effectively exposed Pakistan’s air defence and inflicted substantial damage.

Importantly, Singh clarified that despite India’s capability for escalation, Operation Sindoor was carefully limited in scope, aimed solely at counterterrorism, without intention to start a full-scale war. He reiterated India’s continued commitment to fight terrorism with resolve while exercising strategic restraint to avoid escalating conflicts unnecessarily.

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