Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a rally in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized that India is open to initiating dialogue with Pakistan, provided that the latter halts its support for terrorism in the region.
Addressing a crowd, Singh reiterated that India desires better relations with its neighbor but stressed that this is contingent on Pakistan ceasing its involvement in terrorism. “If Pakistan stops its support for terrorism, we will be ready to engage in dialogue. We wish to improve relations with our neighbors, as changing a neighbor is not an option,” Singh remarked.
The Defence Minister highlighted the revocation of Article 370, which previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, as a necessary step to alleviate the suffering of the region’s people and promote prosperity. Singh noted that terrorism has had a devastating impact, with a significant majority of victims being Kashmiri Muslims.
“Out of those who fell victim to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, 85 percent were Muslims. Terrorist incidents were frequent, and the majority of those affected were Muslims. My experience as Home Minister shows that Muslims bore the brunt of these attacks,” Singh added.
In a related appeal, Singh extended an invitation to residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), asserting that they are considered a part of India. “Pakistan regards PoK residents as foreigners, but we see you as our own. We welcome you to join us,” he declared. He urged PoK residents to support the BJP to ensure significant development in the region, suggesting that witnessing this progress might lead them to reconsider their association with Pakistan.
Singh also pointed to the improved security situation in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. He referenced a recent affidavit filed by Pakistan’s additional solicitor general, which claimed that PoK is considered foreign land by Pakistan.
The Defence Minister’s remarks were part of his campaign efforts for BJP candidates in the upcoming elections, aiming to bolster support for the party and its vision for Jammu and Kashmir.
