Should India Unite to Support Its Armed Forces Amid Tensions with Pakistan?

Synopsis
In the face of escalating tensions with Pakistan, A.K. Antony and K. Surendran urge India to unite in support of its armed forces. This call for solidarity is essential, as both leaders emphasize the commitment of the military to protect the nation and the need for moral support for their families.
Key Takeaways
- Unity is essential in supporting the armed forces during times of tension.
- Both political leaders emphasize moral support for the families of military personnel.
- The armed forces have shown resilience against external threats.
- Postponements of celebrations reflect the seriousness of the current situation.
- Rallies across states highlight a collective national sentiment.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 10 (NationPress) A.K. Antony, India’s longest-serving former Defence Minister, emphasized the need for the nation to present a united front in backing the Indian armed forces, which he described as unyielding in their duty to safeguard the country.
“In Kerala, many of our residents are part of the armed forces. It is our duty, along with the state government, to provide moral support to the families of these brave individuals. We must stand by them,” Antony stated.
However, he refrained from discussing the details surrounding the current tensions with Pakistan.
“The Central government has offered comprehensive support to the defence forces. There’s no need for further discussion on this,” he conveyed to reporters at his residence here.
Now at the age of 84, Antony held the position of Defence Minister from 2006 until 2014 after stepping down as Kerala Chief Minister in 2004. Though he has been out of active politics for two years, he frequently visits the Congress party headquarters in the state capital.
Echoing similar feelings, K. Surendran, a senior Kerala BJP leader and former state president, acknowledged the armed forces for their commitment to the nation.
“Despite provocations and attempts by Pakistani forces to cause harm in border areas, our forces have remained resolute and countered them effectively,” Surendran remarked.
“It is our shared responsibility to provide them with full moral support. In numerous states, including those governed by non-BJP parties, rallies are being conducted to express solidarity with our soldiers,” he added.
Surendran also praised the Kerala government’s choice to delay celebrations marking the fourth anniversary of the Pinarayi Vijayan administration due to the current situation.
“It would convey a powerful message if Chief Minister Vijayan organized a solidarity rally to showcase Kerala’s support for our armed forces,” he stated.