In the deep blue waters off the coast of Kollam, Kerala, a tragedy unfolded more than a decade ago that shook the conscience of the nation. Two innocent Indian fishermen, eking out a living on the sea, were shot dead in cold blood. The bullets didn’t just pierce their bodies — they pierced the soul of a sleeping republic. The perpetrators? Two Italian Navy marines aboard the oil tanker Enrica Lexie.
The aftermath was a shameful chapter in Indian justice. These two foreign military officers walked around freely on Indian soil — not with remorse, but with pride. They behaved like they were above Indian law, as if this land was just another outpost in their empire. The Kerala Police, bound by bureaucracy and what seemed to be diplomatic handcuffs, couldn’t even detain them effectively. The officers were eventually allowed to leave the country — under questionable circumstances, with assurances that rang hollow.
A Weak State in a Strong World
Why did this happen? Why was justice denied?
The answer, many believe, lies in the politics of the time. The central government then seemed more inclined to protect international relations than its own citizens. Italy had leverage, and India lacked the spine. The outcry from ordinary Indians and the fishing community was loud but ultimately futile. Our sovereignty looked negotiable. Our justice system appeared compromised. Our pride — wounded.
But time, as it often does, turns tides.
A New India, A New Era
Fast forward to the present day.
In a completely different scenario, yet one equally symbolic, a British F-35 fighter jet — one of the most advanced stealth aircraft in the world — landed at Thiruvananthapuram airport in Kerala. But here’s the twist: the jet didn’t take off again.
The reason? This is not the same India that once bowed under foreign pressure. This is New Bharat — bold, assertive, and ready to stand its ground.
The F-35’s presence wasn’t ignored. It wasn’t brushed aside as a minor diplomatic hiccup. It was noted, monitored, and contained. If foreign powers had grown used to walking in unchecked, they were in for a rude awakening.
India’s modern defense and security apparatus — from the Anti-Terrorism Squads (ATS) to intelligence wings — now keeps a close watch on every sky it protects and every inch of coastline it guards. Unlike the blind eyes of yesteryear, today’s India sees everything. Reacts swiftly. Responds decisively.
The Symbolism Is Stark
What makes these two incidents so important is not just the facts, but what they represent. The Enrica Lexie case symbolized a weak state that couldn’t defend its own citizens from foreign guns. It showcased how geopolitics can sometimes trump justice. It reminded us painfully of colonial days, when the white man’s law ruled brown bodies.
The F-35 incident, whether routine or not, symbolizes the new order — where even superpowers must think twice before testing India’s patience. It signifies a national awakening. Today, our response to foreign aggression — whether through bullets or presence — is sharp and unrelenting.
Gone are the days when Indian soil was seen as soft ground by global powers. Today, India stands firm — diplomatically, militarily, and morally.
Foreign Powers Must Understand
India is not a land to be trifled with. Not anymore.
Whether it’s the South China Sea, the Line of Actual Control, or the Indian Ocean, India’s voice matters. Whether it’s in diplomatic circles, defense exercises, or global forums — India is not a passive participant. It is a leader. A watchdog of its own destiny.
Yes, we believe in peace.
Yes, we strive for diplomacy.
But we will not allow our fishermen to be killed in silence.
We will not permit foreign aircraft to land on our soil without accountability.
We are not the India of 2012 — we are the Bharat of 2025.
A Message to the World
Let this be clear to every foreign power watching:
You can no longer walk into our waters, shoot our people, and walk out with diplomatic smiles.
You cannot fly over our skies without consequences.
You cannot manipulate our politics, ignore our laws, or challenge our sovereignty without resistance.
India is awake.
Bharat is aware.
And those who attempt to treat us like second-class powers will be reminded of our first-class capabilities.
The Final Word
From Kollam’s sorrow to Thiruvananthapuram’s strength — this is the journey of a nation that refused to remain a silent spectator. The fisherman’s cries echo through time, but today, they are met not with silence, but with strength.
May justice always find its voice.
May Bharat always stand tall.