Jammu, June 26: Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, minced no words as he launched a scathing attack on Pakistan, reaffirming India’s sovereignty over Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK).
Speaking at the ‘Security Conclave’ held at Jammu University’s General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, Singh vehemently stated that POK is an integral part of India, and Pakistan’s illegitimate occupation holds no legal basis.
Singh underscored the significance of the Indian Parliament’s unanimous passing of three resolutions, firmly establishing PoK’s status as Indian territory. He dismissed Pakistan’s persistent claims on Kashmir, asserting that such rhetoric would yield no fruitful outcomes.
Highlighting the transformative changes India has undergone since 2014, Singh warned that if the situation necessitates, India is fully prepared to cross the border and strike back with force.
“Under the Modi Government, India maintains a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism,” he declared, emphasizing that the world has witnessed India’s commitment to this stance.
Singh commended the government’s relentless efforts in significantly weakening terrorist networks in Jammu and Kashmir through rigorous and consistent actions. Notably, he highlighted the successful curbing of terror funding and the disruption of arms and drug supplies to terrorists. Additionally, he emphasized the ongoing operations to dismantle the extensive network of both underground and over ground workers associated with terrorism.
“Our borders will remain inviolable,” asserted Singh, unequivocally declaring national security as the BJP-led Modi government’s utmost priority. He proudly proclaimed that India has undergone a substantial transformation and possesses the ability to strike hard if circumstances demand.
Singh recalled the government’s pivotal actions against terrorism, citing the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot air strike. These decisive measures were responses to Pakistan’s relentless attempts to destabilize peace and harmony through cross-border terrorism, serving as a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to its ‘zero tolerance against terrorism’ policy.
Turning his attention to the abrogation of Article 370, Singh expressed satisfaction that the decision has successfully integrated the people of Jammu and Kashmir into the country’s mainstream, ushering in an era of peace and progress.
Later, the Defence Minister’s resolute address highlighted India’s unwavering claim on PoK, its determination to combat terrorism, and its steadfast commitment to safeguarding national security.
