Says Pak misusing aid for terrorism, India investing in J&K development
Promises all-weather tunnel for Gurez
Srinagar, Sept 29:
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday accused Pakistan of seeking international financial aid to fund terrorism on its soil, while India focuses on peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. Singh made the remarks during a rally in Gurez, Bandipora, while campaigning for BJP candidate Faqeer Mohammad Khan ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls.
Addressing the gathering, Singh claimed that Pakistan has long used terrorism as a tool against India but is now facing increasing isolation on the global stage. “Even Pakistan’s close allies have begun distancing themselves,” he said, adding that recent terror investigations often expose Pakistan’s involvement.
Singh highlighted that despite India’s continuous diplomatic efforts, Pakistan has failed to cease its terror activities. He pointed out that Pakistan’s isolation has become so severe that Turkey, once a staunch supporter, refrained from mentioning Kashmir at the recent UN General Assembly.
The Defence Minister also drew attention to the return of peace in Jammu and Kashmir under BJP rule. “The business of terrorism is not going to last very long now,” he stated, underscoring the government’s firm stance against militancy.
In a bold remark, Singh said that India could have provided Pakistan with a better financial package than the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if relations had remained friendly. “In 2014, Prime Minister Modi announced a special package of Rs 90,000 crore for Jammu and Kashmir, which is far greater than what Pakistan sought from the IMF,” he said.
Singh emphasized that while India dedicates funds to the development of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan misuses international aid for promoting terrorism. He also accused Pakistan of being frustrated after the abrogation of Article 370, alleging that it is attempting to reintroduce terrorism to the region.
He assured the people of Gurez that if BJP candidate Faqeer Mohammad Khan wins, more youth from the region would be recruited into the Indian Army. He also addressed one of Gurez’s key demands – the construction of a tunnel through Razdan Pass to ensure all-weather connectivity. “I promise that after the polls, I will bring the concerned minister here to discuss the project,” Singh pledged.
Singh reaffirmed India’s strength to counter any attacks, including those from across the border, while underscoring Pakistan’s efforts to derail democracy in the region.
