Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked his first Diwali celebration with the Indian Navy on the evening of October 20. This event marked his 12th festive occasion with the armed forces, specifically his inaugural one with the Indian Navy. During his time at sea, PM Modi’s address and message were notably directed towards General Headquarters Rawalpindi in Pakistan.
Addressing the crew within the aircraft hangar of the 45,000-tonne warship, INS Vikrant, PM Modi emphasized the significant impact and fear-inducing reputation associated with the name of the warship. He highlighted the prowess of INS Vikrant, stating how it instilled fear in the enemy even before any battle commenced.
Satellite imagery analysis conducted by India Today showcased the Pakistan Navy’s strategic retreat during an 88-hour conflict. The Pakistani warships were observed relocating from their traditional bases in Karachi and PNS Jinnah in Ormara to civilian berths in safer locations like Gwadar Port and Pasni, where they could potentially evade Indian missile attacks.
The Vikrant carrier battle group, positioned just 300 nautical miles south, posed a formidable threat to Pakistan. Several escort vessels accompanying the Vikrant were reportedly armed with BrahMos missiles, ready to strike at Karachi. However, a ceasefire was declared prior to any such offensive action.
A potential Indian Navy strike on Karachi and other key ports along Pakistan’s coastline would have had immediate repercussions. It could have led to disruptions in global merchant shipping routes, forcing vessels to avoid Pakistani ports or incur higher shipping costs. Additionally, Pakistan’s crucial energy supply from the Persian Gulf would have been severely impacted, given its heavy reliance on daily oil imports.
The vulnerability of Pakistan’s coastline and the inadequacy of its navy were highlighted, indicating that in times of conflict, Pakistan could essentially become landlocked, reliant on neighboring countries for sustenance. The historical context of India’s naval superiority and past victories over Pakistan were also referenced, emphasizing the potential consequences of maritime warfare.
Recent political discussions and strategic movements by Pakistan’s defense officials, including the offer of a new safe harbor in Pasni, further underscored the geopolitical tensions and challenges faced by Pakistan. PM Modi’s Diwali address was seen as a significant political signal, reaffirming the complex dynamics and vulnerabilities faced by Pakistan on multiple fronts.