Kargil Vijay Diwas: Rajnath Singh Criticizes Pakistan's State Policy of Terrorism

New Delhi, India Jul 27, 2026 ALN: Kargil Vijay Diwas: Rajnath Singh Criticizes Pakistan's State Policy of Terrorism

Dras/New Delhi: On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, India commemorated the bravery of its armed forces during the 1999 Kargil War. This day, celebrated annually on July 26, marks the successful culmination of Operation Vijay, which was launched to reclaim Indian territory occupied by Pakistani forces in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. The conflict, which lasted from May to July 1999, saw intense fighting in the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, where Indian soldiers faced not only the enemy but also the harsh weather conditions typical of high-altitude warfare.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh criticized Pakistan for adopting terrorism as a "part of its state policy," asserting that India will only engage in discussions concerning Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This statement reflects India's long-standing position on PoK, which it claims as an integral part of its territory. The issue of Kashmir has been a contentious point in India-Pakistan relations since the partition of British India in 1947 and has led to several wars and ongoing military skirmishes.

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and various political leaders paid tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the conflict. Events were held across the nation, particularly at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Ladakh, to honor the fallen heroes. This memorial stands as a symbol of the sacrifices made by the Indian armed forces and serves as a reminder of the valor displayed by soldiers during the Kargil War.

President Murmu expressed the nation's eternal gratitude towards the soldiers, stating, "Their unparalleled valour, unwavering resolve, and patriotism stand as exemplary models of our army’s glorious traditions." Such sentiments are echoed widely in Indian society, where military personnel are often revered for their sacrifices and commitment to national security. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the courage displayed by Indian soldiers in challenging conditions will always be a source of national pride. In his monthly radio address, 'Mann Ki Baat', he remarked, "Today, the 26th of July, is a date that fills us with pride. This day reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers." This annual address is an important platform for the Prime Minister to connect with citizens, and his emphasis on the Kargil War underscores its significance in the national consciousness.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid homage, describing Kargil Vijay Diwas as a symbol of the indomitable spirit and extraordinary heroism of the Indian Army. He recalled how, in 1999, despite facing harsh conditions and enemy positions on high-altitude fronts, Indian soldiers successfully executed "Operation Vijay" to reclaim the heights of Kargil. The operation was characterized by its strategic planning and the bravery of the troops involved, with many soldiers making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Defence Minister Singh reiterated that there would be no dialogue with Pakistan except regarding PoK, which he termed as "illegally occupied" by Pakistan. Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial, he stated that Operation Sindoor demonstrated India's capability to respond decisively to any threats posed by terrorism. Operation Sindoor, conducted in May 2025, was a significant military operation that aimed to retaliate against a terror attack. Such operations highlight the ongoing security challenges that India faces, particularly from cross-border terrorism, which remains a critical issue in the region.

Singh characterized India’s victory in the Kargil War as "a diamond studded in the crown of Bharat Mata" and warned that any attempts to undermine India's sovereignty would meet with a response beyond Pakistan's imagination. This assertive stance reflects the Indian government's commitment to safeguarding national interests and responding to threats with a robust military posture. The rhetoric surrounding national sovereignty and territorial integrity resonates deeply with the Indian populace, reinforcing a collective identity built around the sacrifices of the armed forces.

Various state leaders also paid their respects. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas as an immortal symbol of the valor and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma remarked that Kargil was a testament to courage, sacrifice, and love for the nation. These reflections from leaders across the political spectrum illustrate the unifying nature of the Kargil War narrative in Indian society.

In Kerala, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and other leaders honored the soldiers, with Arlekar stating that the day fills every Indian with pride. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini also joined in paying tributes. Such widespread recognition of the sacrifices made during the Kargil War serves to strengthen the bond between the military and civilian population, fostering a sense of national unity.

However, the family of Indian Army soldier Avnish Yadav, who lost his life in the Kargil War, expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises made by authorities in recognition of his sacrifice. His mother, Somaro Devi, lamented that despite the passage of 26 years, no memorial or recognition has been established in their village. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among families of martyrs regarding the government's commitment to honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Many families feel that while the state celebrates the valor of soldiers on such commemorative days, the tangible recognition and support for their families often fall short.

Avnish Yadav's father, Shivji Yadav, emphasized that while the government allotted a petrol pump to Avnish’s widow, other assurances remain unfulfilled. He recalled how Avnish joined the Army at 18 and made the ultimate sacrifice after neutralizing 20 Pakistani soldiers during the conflict. This personal narrative highlights the profound impact of the Kargil War on individual families and the ongoing struggles they face in securing recognition and support from the state.

Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates not only a military victory but also the enduring spirit of sacrifice and patriotism that defines the Indian armed forces. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by soldiers and their families, and the importance of acknowledging their contributions to national security. As India continues to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, the lessons of the Kargil War remain relevant, underscoring the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of ongoing threats to the nation’s sovereignty.