Letters to the Editor: Leadership of two Indian female officers

Leadership of two Indian female officers

In retaliation for the inhumane acts carried out by Pakistan-backed terrorists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army launched a strike on terrorist camps operating on Pakistani soil. The terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir clearly indicated that it was not merely an attack but a well-planned conspiracy by the Pakistani government, Pakistani army, and Pakistan’s intelligence agencies to spread communal tension in India. Nearly nine terrorist camps located in Pakistan were destroyed by the Indian Army’s strikes. Importantly, India targeted only terrorist camps—no harm was done to the Pakistani military or civilians. However, Pakistan, which harbours and supports terrorism, could not accept India’s retaliatory action calmly. As a result of this attack on terrorist camps, a war-like situation emerged between India and Pakistan. To address the details of the attack and counterattack, a press briefing was held, where Foreign Secretary Vikram Mishri represented the government, and Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Byomika Singh represented the Indian Army. Colonel Sophia Qureshi is a senior officer in the Indian Army, while Wing Commander Byomika Singh is a female officer in the Indian Air Force.

Instead of assigning a senior male military officer to address the press conference, the decision to have two female officers represent the Indian armed forces and speak before the world created a historic precedent. Through this act, India sent several powerful messages to the world: India does not tolerate terrorism under any circumstances; India will not wait for any third-party approval to respond to terrorist activities against it; India possesses the capability to respond to terrorists in their own language; India made it clear to both Pakistan and the world that it is a secular nation; No one in India receives privileges based on religion or caste; everyone earns their place based on merit; Indian women are strong and always ready to serve the nation; and that Indian women have the power to lead the country and are equally devoted to its defence, just like their male counterparts.

The two female officers became living examples before the world of how Indian women stand equally with men in defending the country. Pakistan often attempts to spread false narratives that religious minorities, particularly Muslims, are persecuted in India. The presence of Vyomika Singh and Sophia Qureshi at the press briefing served as a fitting response to such misinformation. India demonstrated that all Indian citizens, regardless of religion, caste, or community, unite as one for the nation. Pakistan and its army must now clearly understand that, unlike the training in religious and ethnic divisions provided in their military, the Indian Army trains all individuals equally—irrespective of religion or caste. The leadership of Indian women in the military not only strengthens the armed forces but also enables them to take swift and intelligent action against enemies. The result was evident in Operation Sindoor, which the world witnessed.

Just as Indian mothers are nurturing and protective toward their children, they become impenetrable fortresses when it comes to defending their motherland. Operation Sindoor demonstrated not only India’s robust defence and formidable strike capability but also showed that there is no gender or communal discrimination in India. Suitable authority lies in the hands of capable individuals. India’s democratic structure is strong, and values like patriotism and brotherhood are deeply rooted.

Every eligible and skilled citizen of India has the right to serve in the armed forces. Based on merit and capability, individuals can earn promotions and ascend to top military positions. Under well-established rules and policies, every citizen—regardless of religion, caste, or gender—has the right to reach the highest ranks in India’s military. Operation Sindoor proved that whether it is a man or a woman, every officer in the Indian Army is ready to lead any challenging mission at any time, and every soldier is committed to ensuring the mission’s success. The two female officers showcased to the world that the Indian Army is in no way inferior to any other military in the world.

Deborshi Gautam

Bangaon, Nalbari (Assam)

Are walls around Dighlipukhuri necessary?

Recently, a news article, 'Citizens sound alarm over rapid urbanization' was published in your esteemed daily in which a group of veteran citizens and environmental activists voiced their strong opposition at a press meet over unsustainable and hazardous development practices across the city, which had drawn our attention. No doubt, today, the city has embodied resilience and adaptability and embarked on a transformative journey, aiming to establish itself as the "Gateway to Southeast Asia", which is indeed a good initiative. A range of infrastructure projects, including notable development of flyovers, are beginning to ease traffic congestion significantly. The under-construction four-lane flyover, stretching 5.05km from Dighlipukhuri to Noonmati's FCI godown, promises to further alleviate the city's traffic challenges upon completion. Surprisingly, the state government's recent plan to build concrete walls around Dighlipukhuri, which is a historically and ecologically vital site in the heart of the city, without any public notice or environmental clearance, has emerged as a disquieting concern, as it poses a threat to the site's natural and cultural essence. The city's rich heritage and cultural vibrancy need to flourish, as it promises an exciting future for its residents and visitors alike. Sadly, the ongoing wall construction around the area is bypassing public consultation and neglecting basic safety standards. Here a question arises: is it justified? The answer is definitely "No". It has been noticed that there is no public engagement. Then, how could we expect transparency in the city's developmental planning? One feels that a government's construction activities should proceed with coordination with local residents. Therefore, it has become an imperative need for citizens and media to act as a watchdog in the city's various development processes. It may be mentioned here that reporting incidents after they occur is not enough for the media outlets. Providing result-orientated preventive measures for environmental and civic management of the city is also important and should be considered a part of their duties. There is also a need to make it mandatory for the public to be consulted before any decision is made officially, and the participation of the Assam Tourism Development Corporation in the urban developmental discussion is a must to ensure Guwahati's cultural and ecological heritage remains intact and continues to entice tourists to explore the city's scenic and cultural attractions. It is true that challenges remain, but tradition must meet innovation and urban challenges with strategic solutions for the city's community-driven growth.

Iqbal Saikia,

Guwahati.