In a notable declaration to News18, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored India’s unwavering commitment to combating cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, signalling a shift towards more assertive and unconventional tactics in addressing security threats.
Singh’s typically measured remarks took on a resolute tone as he responded to a query by Network18’s Editor-in-Chief Rahul Joshi regarding a report in The Guardian alleging Indian involvement in the elimination of 20 terrorists within Pakistan.
“Any terrorist endeavouring to disrupt peace in India from our neighbouring country or engaging in terrorist activities here will face severe retaliation,” asserted Singh during the interview on Friday. “If they seek refuge in Pakistan, we will not hesitate to enter Pakistan and neutralize them.”
While election rhetoric tends to be forceful, the significance of Singh’s statement, coupled with its source, suggests a deliberate message from India regarding its readiness to employ diverse strategies to counter-terrorism.
Addressing Prime Minister Modi’s assertions on India’s robust stance against cross-border terrorism, Singh affirmed, “The prime minister’s stance is correct (referring to ‘Ghar main Ghus ke maarne vali Baat’) as India possesses the capability, and now Pakistan acknowledges this.”
Retired Lt. General Sanjay Kulkarni, speaking to CNN-News18, interpreted Singh’s remarks as a reference to India’s surgical strikes, such as those in Balakot, which have compelled Pakistan to reconsider its approach.
“The surgical strikes by India have put Pakistan on the defensive, dissuading it from pursuing mischievous activities or utilizing terrorism as a state policy as openly as before,” Kulkarni remarked.
Defence expert Maj. Gen. Harsha Kakar concurred, noting that Singh’s statement reflects India’s capacity to counter terrorism emanating from neighbouring countries, particularly in light of The Guardian’s claims, which India has refuted.
The evolution in India’s response to terrorism has garnered attention, with BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla highlighting a shift towards a more assertive approach, evident in the decline of major terror incidents, particularly after the surgical strikes in 2016 and 2019.
India’s tough stance on terrorism aligns with its broader diplomatic and strategic goals. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently emphasized India’s robust response to cross-border terrorism, emphasizing the messages conveyed by incidents like Uri and Balakot.
Furthermore, India’s insistence on a terror-free environment as a prerequisite for dialogue with Pakistan underscores its unwavering commitment to its security interests. Recent reports indicate a decrease in terrorist activity along the border, attributed to heightened vigilance by Indian security forces.
As India ascends as a global power under PM Modi’s leadership, its firm stance against terrorism, coupled with diplomatic assertiveness, underscores its determination to safeguard its interests and promote regional stability.
