Should We Salute Our Soldiers? Karnataka CM's Stance on War with Pakistan

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka CM expresses strong support for Indian soldiers.
- Operation Sindoor targets terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan.
- India stands ready to engage in warfare if necessary.
- National unity is crucial during times of crisis.
- Precautionary measures and mock drills are planned.
Bengaluru, May 7 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has expressed his profound respect for Indian soldiers who executed strikes under Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. He affirmed that India stands ready to engage in warfare if deemed necessary.
During a press briefing in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah stated, “The Indian armed forces carried out Operation Sindoor aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). Strikes were conducted at nine locations targeting terror bases. Aside from these militant targets, no other areas were impacted, ensuring that innocent civilians in Pakistan were not harmed.”
“Our government pays tribute to the skill and bravery of the Indian soldiers,” he added.
On the international stage, Pakistan has failed to denounce the recent Pahalgam terror attack, prompting India to retaliate with strikes. “This serves as a warning to Pakistan,” he declared.
CM Siddaramaiah elaborated that these military actions come in response to the heinous Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent individuals. “We fully endorse Operation Sindoor. On behalf of the Government of Karnataka, we commend this decisive action,” he stated.
“We are prepared to counter any Pakistani retaliation. India will not shy away from warfare if necessary. We stand unequivocally with the Indian armed forces,” he asserted.
“I extend complete support on behalf of the state government. We will implement all essential precautionary measures. I will liaise with the Central government to guarantee full cooperation from our end,” he reiterated.
CM Siddaramaiah also mentioned that the Government of India plans to conduct mock drills at various sites. “We strongly back this initiative. We will carry out mock drills in Bengaluru, adhere to all protocols, and support the Central government’s directives,” he affirmed.
In light of the strikes against terrorist bases in Pakistan, the Karnataka Congress has opted to cancel its previously scheduled protest rally against the Central government’s policies regarding constitutional rights and price escalation. “Holding a protest right now against the Centre is inappropriate. We have canceled the rally out of respect for our soldiers. The actions of the Indian armed forces against Pakistan are justified,” CM Siddaramaiah emphasized.
“I urge everyone to rally behind the Central government. National security is paramount, and there can be no compromises on this front. At this juncture, we stand with the nation, unwaveringly,” he proclaimed.
When asked about the BJP’s critique regarding a deleted Congress social media post, CM Siddaramaiah chose not to respond, stating, “Right now, we should support any actions taken by our armed forces.”
When questioned about his party referencing Mahatma Gandhi’s remark that peace is the strongest weapon of humanity, the Chief Minister clarified, “That was a different era. The times of Mahatma Gandhi, Buddha, and Basavanna were distinct. When faced with unprovoked attacks, can we afford to stay silent?”