AKHNOOR, Jan 14: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared that Jammu and Kashmir is “incomplete” without Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), delivering a stern warning to Pakistan to dismantle its terror infrastructure or face serious repercussions.
Speaking at an event attended by armed forces veterans in Akhnoor, Singh highlighted the significant transformation in the region following the abrogation of Article 370.
“The circumstances in Jammu and Kashmir have changed dramatically, and this fact must be acknowledged. Jammu and Kashmir is not complete without PoJK, which is considered India’s crown jewel,” he asserted.
Singh reiterated India’s position, stating, “For Pakistan, PoJK is merely foreign land,” and maintained that the aspirations of J&K’s people have never aligned with those of Pakistan.
He referenced the sacrifices made by numerous Muslim residents in the fight against terrorism, pointing out that PoJK has been used by Pakistan to establish terrorist training camps and infiltration routes.
The Defence Minister noted that PoJK is being misused to facilitate the “business of terrorism,” and India is fully aware of the terrorist launch pads situated near the border.
“Pakistan must eradicate these camps, or else…” Singh concluded ominously.
Singh also criticized recent comments made by Anwar-ul-Haq, the self-proclaimed prime minister of PoJK, who promoted Pakistan’s anti-India agenda. He added that the people of PoJK have been deprived of a dignified existence and manipulated by their leaders under the pretext of religion to advance a narrative of exporting terror to India.
Addressing Pakistan’s ongoing support for terrorism, he stated, “Pakistan has consistently sought to destabilize India. Despite global pressure, it has never relinquished its policy of backing terrorism. The terrorists infiltrating Jammu and Kashmir originate from Pakistan.”
During the event, Singh announced the launch of mobile medical units to provide healthcare services to veterans and their families in remote regions across the country.
“The government has implemented various measures to assist ex-servicemen and their families. While not all initiatives are perfect, one of the notable efforts this year is the introduction of mobile medical units for veterans and their families in remote areas,” he explained.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief M.V. Suchindra Kumar were among the notable attendees at the event organized by the Army at Tanda Artillery Brigade in Akhnoor as part of the ninth Armed Forces Veterans’ Day celebrations.
Abdullah commended the armed forces for their commitment to the nation and assured veterans of his government’s unwavering support in addressing their challenges.
He noted that efforts are underway to enhance and strengthen the relationship between the government and the armed forces.
The Defence Minister remembered the valor displayed by the Indian Army during the 1965 war with Pakistan, emphasizing the strategic ingenuity and sacrifices that led to India’s triumph.
Singh specifically referenced the significance of the Battle of Akhnoor, where the Indian Army successfully countered Pakistan’s Operation Grand Slam and pressed toward Lahore. “History shows that Pakistan has faced defeat in every war against India—whether it was the tribal invasion of 1948, the 1965 war, the 1971 conflict, or the 1999 Kargil engagement. In each occurrence, Pakistan has tasted humiliation and defeat,” he stated.
Reflecting on the lessons learned from the 1965 war, Singh criticized the lost chances to leverage military advantages during peace negotiations, citing the Haji Pir example where territory was surrendered despite military success.
“Had we not made that decision, the routes for terrorist infiltration could have been shut down back then. Nevertheless, we began to rectify this by abrogating Article 370,” he concluded.
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