Army operation led to change in mindset: Parrikar
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said that Indian Army's operation to neutralize militants, has initiated a change. "Change requires a change in mindset. A simple action against the insurgents has changed the mindset of the security scenario of the country," he stated. He also added, "Those who fear India's new posture have started reacting", in what was seen as an indirect reference to Pakistan.
A militant group attacked a team of 6 Dogra Regiment, killing at least 20 army personnel in Chandel district of Manipur. The military convoy on Road Opening Patrol (ROP) was first attacked with a powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED). After the IED blast, insurgents resorted to the use of rocket-propelled grenades and automatic weapons. Naga insurgent outfit NSCN (Khaplang), claimed responsibility for the attack.
In a joint operation with the Air Force, Indian Army engaged two separate groups of insurgents along the Indo-Myanmar border at two locations along Nagaland and Manipur borders. The Army said it had inflicted significant casualties. Reports suggested that more than 50 militants including those behind the military ambush in Manipur, had been killed. The Army said it was in communication with Myanmar authorities.
India's May 2014 border agreement with Myanmar on border cooperation, provided for a framework for security cooperation and exchange of information between the security agencies of the two countries.
The retired Army fraternity was all praise for the Myanmar Operation. Former Lt Gen MG Datar said that the action was commendable and will give a clear cut message to the countries that take India for granted. Former Army Vice Chief Lt Gen ML Naidu said that there was nothing wrong in entering Myanmar's boundaries as there is a "hot pursuit" agreement with it.
Indian Army confirmed that at least 20 militants were killed in the Myanmar operation. It said that this was just the beginning and more strikes could follow to curb terrorism in the North-East region of the country. It was learnt that the army troops were dropped close to the Myanmar border by helicopters and they crossed the border on foot to execute the strike.
Pakistan's Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan said "Pakistan is not like Myanmar. Pakistan cannot be cowed down by threats from across the border." His statement came in response to Union minister Rajyavardhan Rathore's remarks on Myanmar operation. Rathore in an earlier statement said that it was undoubtedly a message to all nations that harbours any terror intentions, be it any country including Pakistan.
