New Delhi: Warning Pakistan that it cannot weaken India by orchestrating attacks such as the one on CRPF jawans in Pulwama, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Friday that those responsible will pay ‘a very heavy price’ and security forces will be given a free hand to deal with terrorists.
In a hard-hitting speech at the launch of Vande Bharat train 18, Modi said the ‘blood of the people is boiling’ and forces behind the act of terrorism will be definitely be punished.
“Security forces have been given complete freedom, the blood of the people is boiling… Our neighbouring country, which has been isolated internationally, thinks such terror attacks can destabilise us, but their plans will not materialise,” Modi asserted.
“My condolences to families of those martyred in Pulwama attack, those behind the terror strike will pay a very heavy price. I am thankful to all nations which condemned Pulwama attack and urge them to come together to crush terrorism. The forces behind this act of terrorism and those responsible for it, will be definitely be punished,” Modi added.
Appealing to his critics to not politicise the tragedy, Modi said the attacks have left the country emotional. “I understand the sentiments of those criticising us but I urge them that it is an emotional time, so stay away from political one-upmanship,” he said.
Briefing reporters after the CCS meeting, which is unusual, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said all efforts will be made to ensure that perpetrators of the attack are brought to book. He said those aiding and abating the perpetrators will have to ‘pay a heavy price.
Jaitley said the Ministry of External Affairs will launch an all out effort to isolate Pakistan and all diplomatic efforts will be launched in this regard.
PTI