Modi’s Independence Day Message
On India’s 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a firm warning to Pakistan, stating that India will punish any future attacks on its territory. Speaking from New Delhi’s historic Red Fort, Modi emphasized that India has established a “new normal”, where there is no distinction between terrorists and those who support terrorism.
Modi specifically condemned what he called Pakistan’s nuclear blackmail, declaring that such threats will no longer be tolerated.
“India has decided that it will not tolerate nuclear threats. For a long time, nuclear blackmail had been going on, but this blackmail will not be tolerated now,” Modi said.
Background: India-Pakistan Tensions
This stern warning comes three months after intense clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbors, the worst in decades. In May 2025, India and Pakistan exchanged strikes following an April attack in Kashmir that killed 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists. India accused Pakistan-backed militants, which Islamabad denied, calling instead for an independent investigation.
During the May clashes:
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India targeted nine “terrorist infrastructure” sites in Pakistan.
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Pakistan retaliated with drones, missiles, and artillery, causing casualties on both sides.
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A ceasefire was reached on May 10, mediated by the U.S.
Water Dispute: Indus River Tensions
Modi also hinted at continuing India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, originally halted after the April massacre. The treaty governs the sharing of the Indus River, a vital water source for both nations.
“Rivers from India were irrigating the lands of enemies while my country’s farmers faced a shortage. India has now decided that blood and water will not flow together,” Modi said.
Pakistan has warned that any move to restrict water would be considered an “act of war.”
Trade and Agricultural Stance
While Modi did not directly address U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on India, he reaffirmed India’s commitment to protecting its farmers, a key constituency. Earlier this month, Trump imposed additional tariffs on Indian goods, but Modi stressed that India will not compromise on the agriculture sector.
Demographic Security and Migration
Modi also addressed concerns about illegal migration, claiming it was part of a “conspiracy to change India’s demography.” He announced a “high-powered demographic mission” to address the issue and highlighted ongoing verification drives targeting immigrants without legal status, mostly from Bangladesh.
“No nation in the world can hand over itself to infiltrators,” Modi said, underscoring the government’s national security measures.
