Northeast Will Not Be Divided: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s Warning To Those Trying to Divide the Region

Rajnath Singh emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for holistic development across the entire Northeast region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today gave a clear warning to all those trying to divide northeast and said that the region cannot be divided and will stay intact forever.
“Northeast will not be divided nor will it allow anyone to divide it,” the Defence Minister said while virtually inaugurating the ‘Desh Ka Vallabh’ statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and the Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing Museum of Valour on Thursday, at Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.

Originally scheduled to inaugurate the installations in person, Rajnath Singh addressed the event virtually from the 4 Corps Headquarters in Tezpur, Assam, as inclement weather prevented his visit to Tawang.

The inauguration coincided with Deepawali and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, which is celebrated on October 31st to commemorate the birth anniversary of India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Sardar Patel.

Highlighting the importance of unity, harmony, and the Northeast’s unique role in India’s identity, Rajnath Singh emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for holistic development across the entire Northeast region. “Holistic development of our nation can only happen when the Northeast prospers. We envision a Northeast that is not only rich in natural and cultural resources but also strong and prosperous economically,” he added.

Rajnath Singh opened his address by noting the progress in diplomatic and military talks between India and China aimed at resolving differences along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). “India and China have been engaging at both diplomatic and military levels to address differences in some areas along the LAC. As a result of these talks, a broad consensus based on equal and mutual security was achieved. This consensus respects patrolling and grazing rights in traditional areas. Following this agreement, the disengagement process is nearly complete. However, we must wait a little longer for the issue to advance beyond disengagement,” he stated.

The Defence Minister paid heartfelt tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often called the Iron Man of India, acknowledging his pivotal role in uniting over 560 princely states after independence. “This statue, ‘Desh Ka Vallabh,’ will serve as a source of inspiration, reminding us of the strength found in unity and the resolve needed to build a nation as diverse as ours,” he said.

Singh also honored Major Ralengnao ‘Bob’ Khathing, an extraordinary figure who played a crucial role in integrating Tawang into India and significantly contributed to national security in the Northeast region. “Major Khathing not only led the peaceful integration of Tawang into India but also laid down important military and security frameworks, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment. The ‘Museum of Valour’ now stands as a tribute to his courage and foresight, inspiring generations,” he remarked.

The Defence Minister also recognized the significant role of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in enhancing connectivity in the region, particularly through projects like the Sela Tunnel, which links Assam and Tawang. “In the future, the 2,000-km-long Arunachal Frontier Highway project will serve as a critical strategic and economic asset for the Northeast and the entire nation,” he added.

Singh praised the Armed Forces for their contributions to the Northeast beyond security, highlighting their involvement in National Cadet Corps (NCC) programs, local economic support, and disaster relief efforts. “The Armed Forces not only ensure security but also act as a driving force for development by cooperating with local communities in border areas. This further strengthens India’s commitment to fostering development, peace, and security in the Northeast,” he stated.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Chief Minister of Manipur N Biren Singh, Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Chowna Mein, and Major Bob Khathing’s family members. Additionally, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command Lt Gen RC Tewari, GOC 4 Corps Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, and other senior civil and military officials joined the event virtually along with the Defence Minister.

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