India Ready to Assist Pakistan in Combating Terrorism, Says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
A Bold Offer of Cooperation
In a recent podcast shared by ANI, India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, made a significant statement. He declared that India is ready to assist Pakistan in combating terrorism if the neighbouring country feels it cannot do it alone. This offer marks a significant shift in the dynamics between the two nations, which have historically been marked by tension and conflict.
Consequences of Destabilisation Attempts
Singh warned Pakistan of the consequences it would face if it attempted to destabilise India using terrorism as a tool. He emphasised that any such attempts would not go unanswered and that Pakistan would have to bear the repercussions of its actions.
Rein in Terror, Says Singh
The Defence Minister stressed the need for Pakistan to rein in terror emanating from its soil. He added that India is ready to offer its support if needed, highlighting India’s commitment to regional stability and peace.
Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir: An Integral Part of India
Singh also reiterated India’s stance on Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, stating unequivocally that it “was, is and will remain part of India”. This assertion underscores India’s unwavering position on this contentious issue.
Recollections of the Emergency Period
During the interview, Singh also spoke about the period of Emergency during the Indira Gandhi era. He recalled how he was not even given parole to attend his mother’s last rites during the Emergency. He contrasted this with the accusations levelled against the current government by the Congress, stating, “I was not given parole to attend my mother’s last rites during the Emergency, and now they (Congress) call us dictators.”
Conclusion
Singh’s statements reveal a readiness for cooperation and dialogue in the face of shared challenges. They also underscore the importance of maintaining regional stability and the role each country must play in ensuring this. As the world watches, it remains to be seen how these developments will shape the future of India-Pakistan relations.
