Rajnath Singh Calls for PoK Residents to Join India
Promises of Development in J&K
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called on the residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to unite with India. During a rally in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, Singh expressed confidence that PoK will soon be part of India. He emphasized that once the BJP forms a government in Jammu and Kashmir, development will be so remarkable that PoK residents will want to leave Pakistan and join India.
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Singh said, “Support the BJP in the upcoming elections, and we will bring such development that people in PoK will say, ‘we want to be part of India.’”
Message to PoK Residents
Singh made it clear that India considers the people of PoK as its own. He said, “Pakistan may treat you like foreigners, but we don’t. You belong with us, and we welcome you to join India.”
Reaffirming No Reversal of Article 370
The Defence Minister also dismissed any chance of the National Conference-Congress alliance restoring Article 370. He firmly stated that as long as the BJP remains in power, the abrogation of Article 370 will stand, ensuring unity and progress in Jammu and Kashmir.
No Talks with Pakistan: Amit Shah
Singh’s remarks came after Union Home Minister Amit Shah ruled out any dialogue with Pakistan. Shah reiterated that India will not engage in talks with Pakistan as long as terrorism continues. “There will be no trade or negotiations with Pakistan until terrorism ends,” said Shah.
In 2019, Shah had already made it clear in Parliament that the Modi government is ready to defend PoK as an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing their commitment to the region.
The End of Dialogue with Pakistan
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also weighed in, declaring that the “era of uninterrupted dialogue with Pakistan is over.” Jaishankar stressed that actions have consequences, and India will react based on Pakistan’s conduct. He added, “Article 370 is done, and we now consider how our relations with Pakistan might evolve.”
India’s position remains firm: any talks with Pakistan are contingent on an end to its support of terrorism.
