Ayodhya, Dec 31 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remarked that the essence of Lord Ram’s values illustrates that principles must be upheld even in times of conflict. He asserted that Operation ‘Sindoor’ showcased how contemporary India adheres to these ideals.

Speaking to attendees during the Pratishtha Dwadashi ceremony marking two years since the consecration of Lord Ram at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Singh highlighted that India navigated the course of restraint and virtue during Operation ‘Sindoor’, mirroring the actions of Lord Ram.

“The mission of Lord Ram was not solely to defeat Ravana, but to eradicate injustice. Our aim during Operation ‘Sindoor’ was aligned with that vision -- to impart a lesson to terrorists and their backers, which we accomplished,” Singh stated.

He emphasized that India's response was calculated and disciplined. “Our actions were not arbitrary. They were contained, focused, and deliberate. Operation ‘Sindoor’ affirmed that modern India embodies Ram’s dignity,” he elaborated.

Singh portrayed Lord Ram as a figure of humility, integrity, and compassion, yet capable of vanquishing evil when necessary.

“Ram is ingrained in our identity; his dignity defines who we are. As a formidable warrior, he maintained values and boundaries even in warfare. Today's India mirrors that approach -- resolute against terrorism, while remaining sensitive to the innocent,” the Defence Minister commented.

He reiterated that India's intent is not to escalate conflict, but to dismantle the ecosystem of terror. “Similar to how Ram aimed to eliminate injustice rather than just defeat Ravana, India seeks to eradicate terrorism, not amplify violence,” he noted.

Describing Ram as more than just a mythological figure, Singh asserted that he symbolizes the moral compass of humanity.

“In challenging times, Ram serves as the ideal; when authority becomes reckless, he exemplifies dignity; in discussions of rights, Ram reminds us of our obligations. He embodies truth, restraint, determination, effective governance, and struggle,” he remarked.

Commenting on the transformation of Ayodhya, the Defence Minister stated that the establishment of the Ram Temple has positioned the city as a premier destination for religious tourism, attracting millions of pilgrims from around the globe.

He mentioned that the swift development of roads, housing, green spaces, airports, and railways is evolving Ayodhya into a modern, secure, and prosperous city.

“This metamorphosis is a source of pride not just for Ayodhya, but for the entire nation,” he affirmed.

Commending the double-engine government, Singh pointed out that world-class infrastructure is being developed in alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision while respecting faith, culture, and heritage.

He characterized the Ram Temple movement as a significant historical endeavor rooted in societal awareness, shaped by centuries of endurance, sacrifice, and faith.

“Time reveals the truth about those who obstructed the journey toward Ram and Ramrajya. Each lane in Ayodhya resonates with Ram, and this joy transcends the city -- reaching people across India and the world who believe in and embody his teachings,” Singh stated.

He added that the consecration of Lord Ram two years prior was not just a religious milestone, but a revival of national consciousness, conveying the message of “strength in dignity and dignity in power.”

Earlier, Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Hanuman Garhi in Ayodhya, offering prayers to Lord Hanuman amidst devotional chants.

Following their prayers at Hanuman Garhi, the leaders proceeded to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi complex, where they prayed at the Ram Lalla temple and the Ram Darbar.

They participated in aarti, circumambulated the temple, and prayed for peace, prosperity, and the welfare of the nation and Uttar Pradesh.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Ayodhya earlier to engage in the Pratishtha Dwadashi celebration, welcomed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport. Together, they visited Hanuman Garhi and later made their way to the Ram Janmabhoomi complex.

Amid chants of Jai Shri Ram and Vedic hymns, both the Defence Minister and the Chief Minister participated in temple rituals, hoisting the religious flag atop the Maa Annapurna temple within the complex.