Modi Blames Partition Decisions for Pahalgam Terror, Cites Sardar Patel

Gandhinagar, Gujarat: Prime Minister Modi, who is on a Gujarat tour, made a big statement today saying that if the advice of the first Home Minister Sardar Patel had been followed after the partition of the country in 1947, the Pahalgam attack would never have happened.Modi emphasized that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Home Minister, had advocated for decisive military action to secure Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Had Patel’s advice been heeded, Modi argued, the terrorist infrastructure in PoK, which fueled the Pahalgam attack, might not have persisted, sparing countless lives.

The Pahalgam Tragedy

The Pahalgam attack, executed by heavily armed terrorists, targeted a popular tourist spot in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 people, mostly visitors enjoying the scenic valley. The assault, attributed to Pakistan-based militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, exposed vulnerabilities in border security and reignited debates about India’s historical territorial losses. Modi’s remarks underscored how PoK’s unresolved status has allowed terror groups to establish bases, launching attacks like the one in Pahalgam. The Prime Minister called for a renewed focus on countering cross-border terrorism.

Sardar Patel’s Vision

Modi highlighted Sardar Patel’s strategic foresight during the Partition, particularly his push to reclaim PoK through military means rather than accepting the ceasefire that left the region under Pakistani control. Patel, known for unifying 565 princely states into India, believed retaining PoK was critical for national security. Modi argued that ignoring Patel’s counsel in 1947 created a persistent security challenge, enabling Pakistan to sponsor terrorism. The Prime Minister’s reference to Patel resonated with the audience, invoking Gujarat’s pride in its native son.

A Call for Unity and Resolve

Modi’s speech, delivered during an event celebrating Gujarat’s urban development, urged citizens to draw inspiration from Patel’s legacy of unity and strength. He praised the Border Security Force’s response in Operation Sindoor, which neutralized terror camps post-Pahalgam, but stressed that long-term solutions require addressing historical oversights. Modi called for national solidarity to combat terrorism, emphasizing robust border security and diplomatic efforts to hold Pakistan accountable. His remarks have sparked discussions about revisiting India’s approach to PoK and strengthening anti-terror measures.