Amid reports of targeted killing in Pakistan at the behest of the Indian government and India’s denial, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted on Friday that India would not hesitate to cross into Pakistan to eliminate terrorists seeking refuge across the border.
Addressing concerns raised by a report from UK-based The Guardian alleging Indian involvement in the killings of 20 individuals in Pakistan, Singh reiterated India's commitment to combating terrorism.
Speaking to Network18, Singh emphasized India's desire for cordial relations with its neighbours but warned that any individual attempting to disrupt peace or carry out terrorist activities within India's borders would face severe consequences.
"If any terrorist from Pakistan tries to disturb India or commits terrorist acts here, we will give a befitting response. If he runs away to Pakistan, we will go there and kill him," stated Singh unequivocally.
Singh's remarks come in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent assertion that India possesses the capability to conduct surgical strikes within enemy territory. Singh affirmed the Prime Minister's statement, asserting that India is now equipped to execute such operations effectively, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by Pakistan.
Reiterating India's longstanding commitment to non-aggression and respect for sovereignty, Singh highlighted the nation's historical stance of refraining from initiating conflicts or annexing foreign territory.
"If you see past history, we have never been the aggressor, never tried to occupy even an inch of another country's land. This has been India's character," Singh remarked, underscoring India's principled approach to international relations.
However, Singh cautioned that India would not tolerate repeated provocations, especially in the form of terrorist activities sponsored from across the border. "But if someone dares India time and again, comes here and commits terrorist acts, he won’t be spared," warned Singh, emphasizing India's commitment to defending its citizens and ensuring national security.
The Guardian report alleging Indian involvement in cross-border killings has stirred controversy, prompting inquiries from both domestic and international quarters. While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs remained silent in response to Reuters' request for comment on the report, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry declined to provide any statement.
The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan underscore the persistent challenges posed by terrorism in the region and the complexities of bilateral relations. As both countries navigate delicate diplomatic terrain, the threat of cross-border terrorism continues to loom large, necessitating a robust and proactive approach to counter-terrorism efforts.