Srinagar, May 15 (JKNS): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday questioned the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, describing the country as an “irresponsible and rogue nation.” He said such weapons must be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Singh told soldiers at Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar where he arrived earlier in the day along with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, as per news agency JKNS said, “I ask the world — is it safe for such a reckless nation to possess nuclear arms? Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal should be brought under IAEA control.”
Calling India a “champion of non-violence” and Pakistan a “follower of terrorism and violence,” Singh also remarked on international financial support to Islamabad. “Where Pakistan stands, the line is drawn,” he said, referring to a World Bank loan to the country.
The Defence Minister, accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, commended the Indian Army for its performance in the recent anti-terror Operation Sindoor.
“I feel proud to stand among you all,” Singh told the soldiers. “The country salutes your valour under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Before being a Defence Minister, I was an Indian citizen — today, I’ve come as a messenger carrying the good wishes and pride of the entire nation.”
Paying homage to the victims of the recent Pahalgam attack, he said, “I bow before the soldiers martyred in the fight against terror. I also offer prayers for the civilians who lost their lives and those injured.”
Referring to public anger following the Pahalgam incident, Singh added, “The way people of Jammu and Kashmir reacted against terrorists and Pakistan deserves salute. I have come here to witness that spirit that broke the enemy’s will.”
He also praised the army’s response along the Line of Control. “The destruction of enemy bunkers and posts will be remembered by them for a long time,” he said. (JKNS)