Kashmir, August 2, 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a public gathering in his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, declared that his pledge to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack has been fulfilled through Operation Sindoor, attributing its success to the blessings of Lord Shiva. The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, leaving the nation in mourning.
“My heart was filled with sorrow for the 26 people who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terror attack,” Modi said, emphasizing his resolve to seek justice. “My promise to avenge the ‘Sindoor’ of our daughters was fulfilled with the blessings of Mahadev,” he added, dedicating the success of Operation Sindoor to the deity. The operation, executed by the Indian armed forces on May 7, 2025, targeted nine terror hideouts across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in a swift and decisive response, destroying them within 22 minutes.Modi highlighted the unity of India’s 140 crore citizens as the backbone of the operation’s success, stating, “The strength of Operation Sindoor came from the solidarity of our nation.”
The Prime Minister also praised the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, noting the divine sight of Lord Shiva’s devotees carrying Ganga water in Varanasi, particularly from Gauri-Kedareshwar. Out of respect for devotees, Modi refrained from visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple during the holy month of Sawan to avoid causing inconvenience.During his 51st visit to Varanasi, Modi inaugurated 52 development projects worth approximately ₹2,183 crore, spanning infrastructure, healthcare, and sports facilities. He also released the 20th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, transferring ₹20,500 crore to over 9.7 crore farmers nationwide.
The success of Operation Sindoor, followed by Operation Mahadev, which neutralised three Pakistani terrorists linked to the Pahalgam attack on July 28, has been hailed as a testament to India’s resolve against terrorism. Modi’s remarks underscored the nation’s unyielding stance, with no world leader reportedly questioning India’s actions during the operation.