Context
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh issued a pointed warning to Pakistan while visiting the Sir Creek area of Gujarat’s Kutch district, cautioning Islamabad against “any misadventure.” His remarks came after reviewing Indian military installations along the western border and following intelligence reports of Pakistani military infrastructure and airstrip development near Sir Creek — a historically disputed maritime boundary zone between the two nations.
Key Highlights
- The Defence Minister delivered his remarks during Shaurya Divas celebrations at Lakhpat Nala Military Garrison, invoking the memory of the 1965 war and stating that “the road to Karachi goes through Sir Creek.”
- Singh reviewed joint preparedness of the Army and BSF, attended a Shastra Puja at Bhuj Military Station, and observed border exercises.
- He stressed India’s resolve to counter Pakistan’s infrastructure build-up in the Creek region, warning that any provocation would invite a “response that changes history and geography.”
- Singh recalled Operation Parakram (2001-02), highlighting India’s sustained vigilance from Leh to Sir Creek, and emphasised the forces’ ongoing modernisation and enhanced deterrence posture.
Strategic Significance of Sir Creek
- Geographical Position: Sir Creek is a 96 km tidal estuary in the Rann of Kutch, forming part of the Indo-Pak maritime boundary between Gujarat (India) and Sindh (Pakistan).
- Dispute Nature:
- Originates from differing interpretations of the 1914 Bombay Resolution between the Ruler of Kutch and the Sindh province (then under British India).
- Pakistan claims the boundary follows the eastern bank, while India asserts it runs along the mid-channel.
- Strategic Importance:
- The Creek influences maritime boundary delimitation, exclusive economic zone (EEZ) claims, and fishermen rights.
- Control of the area offers surveillance advantage over coastal routes to Karachi Port and Gwadar.
- Increased Pakistani military activity here signals attempts to enhance forward bases near India’s western seaboard.
India’s Response and Security Outlook
- Strengthening of border infrastructure and surveillance systems under Coastal Security Scheme Phase II and Maritime Domain Awareness Network.
- Regular Army–BSF coordination exercises in the Kutch-Rann belt.
- Enhanced maritime radar coverage through National Command Control Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) network.
- Diplomatic caution remains, as Sir Creek remains un-demarcated pending bilateral agreement.