The War, the Victims and Us

An India-Pakistan cricket match — a cherished event in countless households across both countries. But a full-scale war between the two - not exactly a fan of that. While the conflict has deep roots, the current escalation, though unsurprising given our neighbor’s provocations and our evolving approach to counter-terrorism, is something we had hoped would never come to pass.

India's response to the brutal, cowardice and horrifying Pahalgam terror attack through Operation Sindoor marked a decisive shift. Yet Pakistan’s reaction, which seems like open aggression, dangerously flirts with what could be termed an act of war. For decades, India has borne the brunt of terror attacks — our soldiers, civilians, women, and children have all paid the price. Pakistan’s long-standing role as a haven for terror groups is no secret, and its use of terrorism as a strategic weapon is alarming.

Despite this, global condemnation remains subdued. Economic interests and geopolitical diplomacy often outweigh moral clarity. Here's a question worth asking: If a nation repeatedly violates a ceasefire and shells civilian areas, does that not qualify as terrorism on a military scale?

India has endured these provocations with patience for years. Should we really be surprised if our defense forces finally choose to respond with force to protect the nation? And let’s be clear — this is retaliation, not provocation. The armed forces are working tirelessly to intercept missiles and drones. They guard our cities while we continue with our daily lives in relative safety.

But here’s the thing — while they fulfill their duty, what about ours? Civilians have a role to play too. Beyond posting patriotic messages on social media, there are tangible actions we can take:

1. Support with sincerity: Share messages that uplift the morale of our forces and their families — real encouragement, not just hashtags.

2. Verify before you share: Fake news is a weapon in itself. In times of war, misinformation can cause panic and division. Always confirm before forwarding.

3. Help your fellow citizens: In times of crisis, unity matters. Don’t hoard resources — extend a hand to those in need.

4. Respect government advisories: Follow official guidelines and stay informed through legitimate sources.

5. Promote unity over division: India’s strength has always been its diversity. Let’s uphold that, especially now. Stop abusing the government, other faiths or even genders - everyone's doing their best.

In times like these, patriotism and nationalism isn't just about anger or slogans — it's about responsibility. As some fight at the border and others suffer irreparable loss, the least we can do is ensure that our actions reflect gratitude, awareness, and solidarity.