Why Does BJP Want to Thank Armed Forces with Tiranga Yatra?

Kolkata, May 13 (NationPress) - On Tuesday, West Bengal BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the Indian Armed Forces and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She emphasized that the BJP’s 11-day Tiranga Yatra is a nationwide campaign aimed at recognizing the valor and sacrifices made by the armed forces, especially following the recent completion of Operation Sindoor.

In an interview with IANS, Paul stated, “Representing the BJP, we wish to express our gratitude to our armed forces and our leader, Prime Minister Modi. On April 22, 2025, a heinous terrorist attack led to the loss of the 'sindoor' of 26 Indian women. In retaliation, under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, our armed forces not only avenged the attack but also eliminated its masterminds.”

She noted that Operation Sindoor effectively dismantled significant terrorist infrastructure.

“We destroyed nine terrorist training camps and targeted eleven air bases in Pakistan. The headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, where their training occurred, were annihilated. This was not merely a military action; it was a calculated and strategic response,” she shared with IANS.

Paul also commented on India’s diplomatic actions.

“In diplomatic terms, India has halted the water supply from the Indus River and ceased all trade with Pakistan. They will no longer utilize Indian roads at the border. This decisive stance is what we aim to celebrate through the Tiranga Yatra,” she added.

The Tiranga Yatra began on May 13 and will conclude on May 23, featuring events planned across multiple regions of the country.

Launched at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, the Tiranga Yatra seeks to foster a sense of national pride and unity, with a particular emphasis on honoring the courage of the Indian Army.

The BJP intends to engage with citizens from diverse communities and areas, promoting a message of patriotism, national cohesion, and reverence for the Tricolour.

Responding to Prime Minister Modi's recent assertion that India will only discuss two issues with Pakistan—terrorism and the return of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK)—Paul dismissed the idea of resuming normal diplomatic relations with Pakistan.

“Pakistan is recognized as our adversary. What’s surprising is that some Opposition parties continue to praise Pakistan and criticize India. The Prime Minister has made it abundantly clear: any act of terrorism is regarded as an act of war. This is not the India of 2008 when the 26/11 Mumbai attacks went unaddressed. This is a formidable, new India—Modi's India,” she stated.

The BJP leader reiterated PM Modi’s message that “blood and water cannot coexist.”

“If Indian blood is spilled, then the waters of our rivers will not be released. There will be no compromises. And let me clarify—this is not war. Those labeling the government as warmongers, especially communists and other party leaders, are mistaken. This is merely a first step toward eradicating terrorism,” Paul asserted.

Paul underscored that India advocates for peace but will not tolerate provocation.

“India does not seek war. However, if anyone dares to challenge us, we will not remain silent. The Prime Minister has sent a strong message: we will not provoke anyone, but if provoked, we will respond decisively,” Paul concluded.