New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh has again reiterated India’s stance on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), declaring it an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir. Singh was speaking at the 9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day event in Akhnoor. He also criticised Pakistan for using PoK as a hub for terrorism and warned that Islamabad must dismantle terrorist camps operating in the region.
“Jammu and Kashmir is incomplete without PoK,” Singh said, adding that PoK has become a foreign territory for Pakistan, where terrorist training camps are being run. “Pakistan will have to destroy them, or else…” he cautioned.
‘Bridging gap between Kashmir and Delhi’
The defence minister also addressed ongoing efforts by the Centre to strengthen unity between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country. “Our top priority is to bridge whatever gap exists between Kashmir and the rest of the country. Steps are being taken in this direction by J&K chief minister Omar Abdullah,” Singh stated.
Singh’s remarks came after PoK leader Chaudhry Anwarul Haq alleged that India was orchestrating plans for terrorist acts in PoK and funding efforts to incite chaos amid protests for rights in the region.
Pakistan actively trying to destabilise J&K
Rejecting these allegations, Singh said that Pakistan is actively trying to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir. “Pakistan is making all efforts to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir, but we remain resolute in our mission to ensure peace and prosperity for the region,” he said.
The defence minister also expressed gratitude towards the armed forces and the people of Akhnoor, noting their role in India’s security and unity. “The Veterans’ Day celebrations in Akhnoor prove that Akhnoor holds the same place in our hearts as Delhi,” Singh said.
