Ceasefire Declared Without Consulting Armed Forces, Alleges CM Sukhu at Jai Hind Sabha.
Shimla:
In a powerful and emotionally charged address at the ‘Jai Hind Sabha’ held in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister ȲSukhvinder Singh Sukhu paid heartfelt tributes to the courageous soldiers of the state and the nation, while strongly criticizing the Union government for announcing a ceasefire allegedly without consulting India’s armed forces.
“Today is a day to salute the supreme sacrifices of our brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the country,” said Sukhu, addressing a gathering of citizens, ex-servicemen, and officials. He recounted a recent visit to Sharchi village in the Tirthan Valley, where he stayed at the home of former soldier Subedar Major Anoop Ram. Reflecting on their conversations, Sukhu spoke about the 1971 India-Pakistan war, highlighting how the stirring address of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had filled soldiers with courage and inspired the nation. “The outcome of that war was historic. We split Pakistan into two, and Shimla became witness to the landmark Simla Agreement,” he added.
Sukhu praised the indomitable spirit of Himachali soldiers, noting that the state holds the distinction of having four Param Vir Chakra awardees — a reflection of its rich legacy of valour and sacrifice. “Our soldiers have never hesitated to lay down their lives for the nation. Himachal has a proud and unmatched history of heroism,” he stated.
Recalling the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Chief Minister said that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was among the first to offer full and unconditional support to the Union government in the fight against terrorism. “The people and government of Himachal Pradesh have always stood solidly behind our armed forces,” he emphasized.
However, Sukhu did not hold back in his criticism of the Union government’s recent handling of the conflict. He expressed concern over the manner in which a ceasefire was announced, stating, “Shockingly, the announcement was made via social media from a third country and without consulting the leadership of the Army, Navy, or Air Force.” He contrasted this with the firm approach taken by Indira Gandhi during her tenure, asserting, “This is not the decisive leadership we once had. National security should never be compromised.”
Highlighting the Congress party’s long-standing legacy of sacrifice, Sukhu said, “Former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi made the ultimate sacrifice for the unity and integrity of India.” He added that Congress leaders have laid down their lives in various parts of the country, including Punjab and Chhattisgarh, in defense of the nation and its values.
In concluding his address, Chief Minister Sukhu called for renewed respect and unwavering support for India’s armed forces, while urging the current leadership to uphold the principles of consultation, coordination, and courage in decisions related to national security.
