India News Manch 2023: Gen VK Singh Recounts Successful Uttarkashi Rescue Operation

The India News Manch, India’s largest political summit for 2023, began today in the National Capital, with the who’s who of Indian politics decorating the stage. The mega conclave brought together India’s most powerful political leaders and voices, including Union Cabinet ministers, state cabinet ministers and members of parliament, chief ministers, party presidents, general secretaries, and spokespersons, to witness some of the most compelling panel discussions and exclusive interviews ahead of the election season.

In an exclusive conversation with Union Minister VK Singh, he explained the meaning of ‘Modi Guarantee.’ Singh stated that the concept of Modi Guarantee has been in place since the time Modi Ji assumed office. Some elements were recently added, while others were inherent. He emphasized that this government is for the youth, the Dalits, and every citizen. This, he asserted, is their guarantee.
“Modi ki Guarantee” is not a recent development; it has been in existence since Modi Ji came into power and promises to propel the nation forward while enhancing the lives of the less privileged,” VK Singh said.

VKS recounted the entire story of the workers trapped in the tunnel on stage. “We rescued the workers trapped in the tunnel. Discussing the 40 laborers trapped in the tunnel, he said that things had not deteriorated that much after this incident. But while trying to remove the debris, the situation worsened further. Even after this we knew we would pull it out and we did. The biggest thing was to console everyone. But we did everything.”
“A lot has happened that we never anticipated, such as the fact that we were unaware that the lattice grinder would become stuck in the auger machine, which made the entire rescue operation time-consuming but we still continued to work on every aspect to free the people who were trapped in the Silkyara Tunnel.”
VK Singh said that everywhere, every work is a risk. Despite being so busy in this matter, PM Modi was continuously taking updates. We had made many preparations. If one plan failed, another was ready. The risk of failure is everywhere. But trying is success.

Regarding Article 370, he expressed, ‘I have an old connection with Kashmir. 370 was the biggest hurdle. Whether you are an Indian or from any other country, think about it. It was inevitable that it had to go. Unfortunately, it might take years to fully remove it. Actually, no one wanted to take this risk. Perhaps there was fear of repercussions. However, post-2014, under the leadership of the Modi government, a decision was made that whatever is right for the country must be done. Subsequently, the Supreme Court also gave its approval. Although, in my opinion, taking it to court was a selfish act. Article 370 was the biggest hurdle in determining whether Kashmir belonged to India or not. It’s sad that it took so many years to abrogate it.’