Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a memorable assurance to India’s Naval Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi moments after ordering a ceasefire that prevented a planned missile attack on Pakistan’s Karachi port, revealing the high-stakes drama that unfolded on May 10.
In a candid moment with his military leadership, Modi told Admiral Tripathi: “Humne aapke mooh se niwala cheen liya, aapko mauka phir milega” (“I have snatched the morsel out of your mouth, but your turn will come”). The statement came shortly after the Indian Navy was instructed to stand down from launching a BrahMos missile attack on the strategic Pakistani port facility.
The dramatic episode highlights the razor’s edge decision-making that characterized the crisis, with Admiral Tripathi described as being “ready to wipe out Karachi port” until Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations made an urgent plea for peace. The Naval Chief, characterized as a “total badass who believes in the lethal power of the Navy,” had been prepared to execute what would have been a devastating strike against Pakistani infrastructure.
Modi’s war cabinet during this critical period included Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, alongside the three service chiefs. The Prime Minister demonstrated remarkable resolve, reportedly showing no concern that Pakistan might retaliate against his home state of Gujarat in response to any action against Karachi.
The account reveals the contrasting personalities of India’s military leadership: Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh described as a “classic test fighter pilot” with a fearless attitude, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi as a soldier’s soldier who “can be ruthless” when required, and Admiral Tripathi as someone completely committed to naval power projection.
While congratulating General Dwivedi and Air Chief Marshal Singh for the armed forces’ response during the crisis, Modi’s specific words to the Naval Chief suggest that future opportunities for decisive naval action remain on the table, indicating India’s continued readiness to use maritime power as a strategic deterrent.
