In the wake of Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir’s recent admission of the Pakistan Army’s role in the Kargil War, Indian Defence Expert Anil Gaur has emphasised the significance of this statement. He pointed out that it underscores Pakistan’s continued obsession with Kashmir, revealing that even after 75 years, the issue remains unresolved for them.
Gaur highlighted that it is time for the Pakistan Army to shift its focus from competing with India and instead address pressing domestic issues, such as hunger and unemployment, which are afflicting their population. He stressed that the Pakistan Army should stop treating India as an adversary and instead prioritise the well-being of its own citizens.
Gaur remarked, “After 25 years, Pakistan has now admitted its army’s involvement in the Kargil War of 1999. This is a significant development as it shows that, even after 75 years, Pakistan has not moved on from the Kashmir issue.”
The defence expert further stated, “Kashmir is a recognised part of India, and the world acknowledges that fact. However, despite losing multiple wars, Pakistan continues to raise the Kashmir issue.” He added, “It’s high time for Pakistan to stop matching up to the Indian Army and refocus on the needs of its people, who are suffering from hunger and unemployment.”
Gaur also called for a reallocation of Pakistan’s military expenditure towards public welfare, saying, “The funds spent on arms and ammunition by the Pakistan Army should be diverted for the public good.”
This comes after a rare public acknowledgment by Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir, who, during his Defence Day address on September 6 in Rawalpindi, admitted the Pakistan Army’s involvement in the Kargil War. General Munir’s speech marked a significant moment, as this is one of the first instances of a senior Pakistani military officer publicly acknowledging the army’s role in the conflict.
Also read: Watch: For The First Time, Pakistan Army Chief Admits Involvement In 1999 Kargil War
According to a video of his address shared by Geo News, Munir stated, “Pakistan is a brave and courageous nation that understands the value of freedom and the sacrifices it demands. From the wars of 1948, 1965, and 1971 to the Kargil conflict and the Siachen standoff, thousands of soldiers have laid down their lives for the nation.”
The Kargil War, which lasted over 60 days, culminated on July 26, 1999, with India securing a hard-fought victory. Indian forces reclaimed strategic high-altitude posts that had been covertly occupied by Pakistani soldiers during the winter. Indian soldiers, supported by the Indian Air Force, bravely battled harsh terrain and enemy forces to secure the win. The success of Operation Vijay is commemorated annually on Kargil Vijay Diwas, celebrated on July 26, in honor of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives.
During the conflict, it was revealed that Pakistan’s Northern Light Infantry was fighting in civilian clothing against the Indian Army.
Additionally, General Asim Munir, in his Defence Day speech, addressed the need for national unity, stating that political differences should not be allowed to foster hatred. He emphasized that efforts to weaken Pakistan’s national solidarity would not succeed, adding that the Pakistan Army shared a deep and enduring relationship with the people of Pakistan, which would continue to strengthen the resolve of the nation’s security forces.