Rajnath Singh to Pakistan: Dismantle terror infrastructure in PoJK or face consequences

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh issued a stern warning to Pakistan on Tuesday, accusing it of perpetuating terrorism and destabilizing India through its activities in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Addressing a veterans’ rally in Akhnoor, Singh demanded that Pakistan dismantle its terror infrastructure in PoJK, describing the region as a hub for terrorism. “The land of PoK is being used to run the business of terrorism. Terrorist training camps and launch pads for infiltration are operational there, and the Indian government has concrete information about these activities. Pakistan must dismantle these operations, or it will face consequences,” Singh said, reaffirming India’s firm stance on the issue.

Singh reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is incomplete without PoJK, labeling it as foreign territory exploited by Pakistan to further its anti-India agenda. He condemned the exploitation of PoK’s population, who he said are deprived of a dignified life and manipulated under the guise of religion. He also criticized recent statements by PoJK Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq, calling them an extension of Pakistan’s long-standing anti-India narrative rooted in the era of General Zia-ul-Haq. Singh added, “Pakistan has consistently attempted to destabilize India since 1965 through terrorism and infiltration. Despite its failures, it has not abandoned its policy of fostering terror, and the Indian government is fully aware of its activities.”

Reflecting on Pakistan’s historical failures, Singh highlighted India’s decisive victories in wars and conflicts, including the 1965 war, the 1971 war, and the 1999 Kargil conflict. He noted that Pakistan has faced repeated humiliation, with its hopes of gaining support from Jammu and Kashmir’s Muslim population consistently dashed. “Even at the height of terrorism, the people of Jammu and Kashmir never sided with Pakistan. Many of our Muslim brothers sacrificed their lives fighting terrorism. Heroes like Mohammed Usman laid down their lives to defend our sovereignty,” Singh emphasized.

He revisited the lessons of the 1965 war, criticizing the strategic error of ceding Haji Pir during negotiations despite a military victory. “If that territory had not been ceded, routes for terrorist infiltration would have been sealed long ago. However, we have started to rectify such errors with the abrogation of Article 370,” Singh said. Singh asserted that the abrogation of Article 370 has brought transformative changes to Jammu and Kashmir, reducing terror activities and fostering peace and development. “The situation in Jammu and Kashmir has drastically changed. This truth must be accepted: Jammu and Kashmir is incomplete without PoK, which remains the crown jewel of India,” he declared.

Paying homage to the valiant efforts of the Indian Army in conflicts with Pakistan, Singh underscored the strategic brilliance displayed in battles like Akhnoor and the defense against Pakistan’s Operation Grand Slam. He concluded with a message of resolve, asserting that India’s sovereignty and security remain non-negotiable.