Indian Military Leaders Respond to Pakistan Army Chief's Controversial Remarks
Strong Reactions to Pakistan's Army Chief's Speech
Martyr Saurabh Kalia’s father & Brig Khushal Thakur say remarks only show India’s military dominance
Munish Sood
MANDI: The remarks made by Pakistan’s Army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, during a recent event in Florida have sparked significant outrage in India. Critics have labeled his speech as both reckless and counterproductive.
During a dinner hosted by Tampa businessman and honorary consul Adnan Asad, Munir likened India to a “shining Mercedes” while referring to Pakistan as a “dump truck.” He also issued threats of nuclear conflict, boasted about Pakistan's mineral resources, and vowed to target Indian dams.
His comments have attracted international scrutiny, with many observers noting that even within his own analogy, Munir portrayed Pakistan as inferior. In India, the backlash has been fierce, particularly from families of Kargil War veterans and those who fought against Pakistan in 1999.
Emotional Outburst or Genuine Threat?
Not threat, but emotional outburst, says Capt Vikram Batra’s father
GL Batra, the father of Param Vir Chakra recipient Capt Vikram Batra, attributed Munir’s comments to Pakistan's failure to accept its recent military defeats, particularly during Operation Sindoor, which exposed Islamabad's vulnerabilities.
“These statements stem from their humiliating defeat. Pakistan has learned nothing from Operation Sindoor. Instead, they promoted Asim Munir to Field Marshal, which has only inflated his arrogance. His reasoning is flawed, and the real influence behind him is the US,” Batra stated, accusing the US of using Munir as a mouthpiece.
“This is not Munir’s voice but that of the US, supported by figures like President Donald Trump. When someone cannot manage the power they have seized, they act erratically. These are not threats but emotional outbursts that hold no weight for India. Pakistan is aware of its limitations, and even its own citizens ridicule him for such statements,” he added.
Pakistan's Consistent Behavior Over Decades
Pakistan’s nature will never change, says Capt Saurabh Kalia’s father
NK Kalia, father of Kargil martyr Captain Saurabh Kalia, remarked that Pakistan's behavior has remained unchanged for 75 years. “Pakistan’s nature will never change. Over the past seven decades, India has offered them numerous opportunities to alter their course, yet they have consistently betrayed us,” Kalia expressed.
He drew parallels with former Pakistani leader Pervez Musharraf, stating, “This is not a new phenomenon. Musharraf also allowed the US to exploit Pakistan for its own interests. Pakistan has a long-standing history of submitting to larger powers, seeking assistance, and then following misguided paths.”
Kalia warned, “Munir was summoned by Trump to be used against India, and he mistakenly believes this grants him power. If Pakistan dares to act again, there will be another Operation Sindoor. Pakistan is a lightweight nation that cannot manage even a small arsenal without losing control. They have never learned from history, and they never will.”
Highlighting India's Military Strength
Munir has embarrassed his country: Brigadier Khushal Thakur
Kargil War hero Brigadier Khushal Thakur stated that Munir’s comments merely underscore India’s military superiority. “We should thank him for openly acknowledging India’s dominant military position. India ranks 4th globally, with highly capable forces, while Pakistan, with its limited resources, is 12th and heavily reliant on external support,” Thakur noted.
He referenced Operation Sindoor as evidence of India’s military prowess, national determination, and political will. “If Pakistan engages in any hostile actions again, we are ready to respond with even greater intensity. India will not be intimidated by nuclear threats. Munir has made himself a laughingstock and embarrassed his nation, demonstrating once more that Pakistan has reverted to being dependent on America,” Thakur concluded.