At an election rally in Gurez, Bandipore, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India could have offered Pakistan more financial help than what they sought from the IMF if relations were better.

In recent times, Pakistan is grappling with one of its worst economic crises, recently securing a $7 billion loan from the IMF as part of a bailout. This marks the country's 22nd bailout since 1958, making it the IMF's fifth-largest debtor, with $6.28 billion still owed to the Fund.

Addressing the rally, Rajnath Singh said, in 2014-15, PM Modi announced a special package for Jammu and Kashmir's development. That package has since increased to an amount larger than what Pakistan recently requested from the IMF, highlighting the significant financial commitment made by the Indian government.

Singh, while highlighting the Prime Minister's Development Package (PMDP) introduced by PM Modi in 2015, quoted former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s famous saying: "You can change friends, but not neighbours." He added, "Had the relationship been better, India would have offered Pakistan more financial assistance than what they requested from the IMF."

Rajnath Singh
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

He also criticised Islamabad, stating that Pakistan seeks money from other countries to fund its terrorist factories on its soil. He emphasised that investigations into terrorism in Kashmir have consistently uncovered Pakistan's involvement. He remarked, "Every time we investigate terror activities, Pakistan's role becomes clear. Despite repeated efforts by successive governments to urge Pakistan to shut down terror camps, these attempts have been unsuccessful."

Adding to this, Singh declared, "This is a new India; are ready to fight terrorism, not just on our side of the borders but on the other side if necessary." He also highlighted Pakistan's growing isolation on the global stage, noting that even Turkey, a former supporter of Pakistan, refused to bring up the Kashmir issue at the UN General Assembly.

Rajnath Singh assured that if there is any future terrorist attack from those across the border, they should be prepared for a retaliatory strike. He added that Pakistan is frustrated by the revocation of Article 370 and is trying to reignite terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rajnath Singh
Image Source: PNGWing

Singh also criticised the opposition for their demand to restore Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that only the central government has the authority to make such changes. He highlighted the positive changes in the region since the revocation of Article 370, noting that people are enthusiastically voting in elections, the tricolour is being hoisted at Lal Chowk, and a large number of tourists are visiting Kashmir. He added that the youth are now holding computers and laptops instead of stones. Prestigious institutions like IIM, IIT, and other national colleges will also be established. He emphasised that efforts are being made to secure the future of families in Jammu and Kashmir.

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