Are People Prepared for Any Situation? Haryana Minister Discusses Mock Drills

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Civil defense is vital during national emergencies.
- Mock drills are necessary for readiness against threats.
- Citizens should support the Armed Forces.
- Political leaders should refrain from interfering in military decisions.
- Unity and vigilance are crucial during times of tension.
Chandigarh, May 6 (NationPress) Haryana's Energy Minister Anil Vij remarked on Tuesday that India's civil defense is crucial during natural calamities affecting any region of the country. He emphasized that citizens must remain engaged with civil defense to prepare for any unforeseen events.
In light of the Central government's directive for a nationwide mock drill on May 7, amidst escalating tensions with Pakistan, Minister Vij stated, "Historical conflicts, such as the 1965 and 1971 India-Pakistan wars, necessitated blackouts and safe relocations for the populace."
"As we gear up for potential offensives, similar blackouts could occur in Pakistan. We possess a robust civil defense apparatus that must be activated during these critical moments, making mock drills imperative," he added.
Addressing remarks from People’s Democratic Party Chief Mehbooba Mufti regarding military operations in Kashmir, Minister Vij insisted that military strategies should be entrusted solely to the Armed Forces.
He further stated, "With Prime Minister Narendra Modi clearly articulating that military decisions lie with the Army, it is inappropriate for other leaders to interfere. When the Prime Minister asserts that the Army should determine tactics and timings, it is imperative they are allowed to execute their duties."
Minister Vij called upon the nation, urging, "The citizens of India must resolutely support their Armed Forces, uplift their spirits, and severely reprimand those disseminating negativity so that no dissenting voices against the Army emerge."
When questioned about comments from the Congress and other opposition factions regarding actions towards Pakistan, he labeled such individuals as traitors, asserting, "These statements are not mere coincidences but intentional provocations."
He noted that traitors have always existed, attempting to undermine the Army's morale. "Mocking the Rafale, one of the world’s finest fighter jets, as done by the Uttar Pradesh Congress President, is simply unacceptable. In historic battles, our forces drew strength from encouragement and patriotic anthems. Currently, it appears that these opposition factions are colluding with Pakistan, and the public must remain vigilant against them," he concluded.