Terrorists Challenged the Dignity of Indian Women, Faced Crushing Defeat: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a women empowerment event in Bhopal on Saturday, said that terrorists had made the grave mistake of challenging the strength and dignity of Indian women in Pahalgam — a mistake that led to their biggest defeat. “They not only spilled the blood of innocent Indians, they attacked our culture and values with the intent to divide us. But their challenge was met with a powerful response,” he said.

The event, a Maha Sammelan held to mark the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, was attended by thousands, many of them women dressed in vibrant vermillion sarees, symbolising courage and strength. Modi hailed the Indian armed forces for their decisive response, saying, “Our forces destroyed terrorist hideouts deep across the border. Operation Sindoor will be remembered as one of the most successful counter-terrorism operations in India’s history.”

Sending a strong message, Modi added, “Now, we won’t hesitate to strike even inside their homes. Anyone who helps terrorists will also face consequences. 140 crore Indians stand united in saying — if you fire bullets, be ready to face shells in return.”

He connected the courage of Indian women to the symbolism of sindoor in Indian culture. “Sindoor is not just a mark of marriage — it represents power and devotion. Even Lord Hanuman is adorned with sindoor. It has now become a symbol of India’s strength,” he said.

Paying tribute to Ahilyabai Holkar, Modi praised her leadership and visionary reforms. “She ruled in tough times, like wearing a crown of thorns. But she brought prosperity to her people and never differentiated between devotion to God and service to the public. Her model of governance uplifted the poor and empowered even the most marginalised,” he said.

He highlighted her efforts in preserving temples and Indian culture, promoting employment through agriculture, cottage industries, and handicrafts, and championing the rights of women — including raising issues like girls’ minimum age of marriage and widows’ remarriage, which were revolutionary for her time.

Modi also reflected on working under the leadership of President Droupadi Murmu, calling it an honour to serve under a tribal woman leading the country.

He reiterated that his government continues to uphold the values of “Nagrik Devo Bhava” — treating citizens as divine — inspired by Ahilyabai’s legacy.

Modi also spotlighted central government schemes like Drone Didi, Nal Jal, Swachh Bharat, Housing for All, and Ayushman Bharat, calling them not just development initiatives, but efforts to respect and uplift Indian women.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated Madhya Pradesh’s first Metro project in Indore, along with new airports in Satna and Datia. The event was also attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Governor Mangubhai Patel.