Gave a befitting reply, says PM on LAC clash

MANN KI BAAT PM Narendra Modi says the country bows to the brave martyrs

NEW DELHI: India gave a befitting response to those who eyed Indian territory in Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday referring to the violent border clash along the disputed Line of Actual Control (LAC) that killed 20 Indian Army soldiers and an unidentified number of Chinese soldiers at Galvan valley area of the region on June 15.

“In Ladakh, a befitting reply has been given those coveting our territories. India knows how to maintain friendships but it can also look someone in the eye and retaliate and give an apt reply,” PM Modi said in his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat.

The Prime Minister’s remark came as both countries continue to trade barbs over the clash even as diplomatic and militarylevel talks were held to de-escalate tensions. The two nations have also scaled up military reinforcements in the Ladakh sector.

Indian and Chinese troops had clashed in eastern Ladakh’s Galwan valley on June 15 in which 20 Indian Army soldiers, including the commanding officer of 16 Bihar Regiment, were killed.

India has shown the world its sense of fraternity during the coronavirus pandemic as well its strength and commitment to protecting its sovereignty and borders, PM Modi said in the 66th episode of his radio address.

“Our brave soldiers have shown that they will not let any harm be done to Mother India’s

“A befitting reply has been given those coveting our territories. India knows how to maintain friendships but it can also look someone in the eye and retaliate and give an apt reply”

“During this unlock period, one will have to focus on two points -- defeating coronavirus and strengthening the economy”

“Historically, India has always emerged brighter and stronger, ensuring victory over all kinds of disasters and challenges. For centuries, myriad tyrants invaded India... that people once used to feel that the very idea, the fabric of Bharat would be wiped out. But India overcame the scourge, and more gloriously so”

pride. India bows to our brave martyrs. They have always kept India safe. Their valour will always be remembered,” he added.

The Prime Minister also extended his condolences to the families of the soldiers who were killed in the Galwan valley clash.

“Our brave soldiers have shown that they will not let any harm be done to Mother India’s pride. India bows to our brave martyrs. They have always kept India safe. Their valour will always be remembered”

“The inner sense of pride that families feel on the supreme sacrifice of their brave sons and their sentiment for the country constitutes the true power and the might of the country,” the PM said.

The external affairs ministry