In a recent statement directed towards Pakistan, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India’s willingness to collaborate in combating terrorism if Pakistan expresses its inability to do so. During an interview with ANI, Rajnath Singh cautioned that Pakistan would face repercussions if it attempts to destabilize India through terrorist activities. Rajnath Singh also reflected on the Emergency era under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, highlighting his personal experience of being denied parole even during his mother’s passing.
Rajnath Singh expressed his disappointment at not being granted parole to attend his mother’s last rites during the Emergency, and criticized the Congress for labeling them as dictators.
The comments on Pakistan were made shortly after Rajnath Singh, during an interview with a television channel, emphasized that India would not hesitate to enter the neighboring country to eliminate terrorists who flee across the border.
Responding to a report in The Guardian alleging that India had carried out “targeted killings” in Pakistan since 2020 to combat terrorism, the Defence Minister reiterated that India has never initiated an attack on any country.
While asserting that India has always respected the sovereignty of other nations, Rajnath Singh warned that any threat to India’s peace and security would be met with a strong response.
Pakistan reacted swiftly to Singh’s statements, denouncing them as “provocative” and claiming that such rhetoric hinders the possibility of constructive engagement in the future. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan reaffirmed the country’s commitment to safeguarding its interests and defending itself against any threats.