During a rally in Jammu and Kashmir’s Gurez, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made pointed remarks regarding Pakistan’s ongoing financial challenges and involvement in cross-border terrorism. Addressing a significant gathering, Singh underscored the transformation underway in Kashmir, linking it to India’s resilience and democratic values, and contrasted it with Pakistan’s economic struggles, specifically referencing their reliance on IMF aid.
Singh noted that India’s developmental efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP), had surpassed the funds Pakistan has sought from the IMF. He stated that, had relations been more amicable, India could have extended more financial support to Pakistan than the International Monetary Fund. This comparison came as Singh emphasized India’s commitment to counter-terrorism efforts, both within its borders and potentially beyond, accusing Pakistan of being a major instigator in terrorist activities in the region. His remarks further highlighted the growing tensions between the two nations, particularly over the issue of terrorism in Kashmir.
Singh also pointed to the changing landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, where the region is witnessing a surge in tourism and educational engagement among its youth, a stark contrast to earlier periods of violence. The Defence Minister was quick to attribute this shift to the central government’s policies and condemned opposition parties, including the National Conference and the Congress, for their failure to bring lasting change to the region. He criticized their promises to restore Article 370, suggesting such moves were merely political, aimed at securing power rather than addressing the real needs of the people.