Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday declared that Jammu and Kashmir remains incomplete without Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), calling it a vital part of India's territory and dismissing Pakistan?s claims over it. Speaking at the 9th Armed Forces Veterans' Day celebration held at the Tanda Artillery Brigade in Akhnoor, Singh emphasized that PoK is nothing more than "foreign territory" for Pakistan.
PoK: A Base for Terrorism
"PoK is being used to operate terrorism. Training camps for terrorists are still functioning in PoK, and launch pads have been built near the border. The Indian government is fully aware of these developments. Pakistan will have to dismantle these facilities," Singh said.
He accused Pakistan of misleading the people of PoK and inciting them against India under the guise of religion. Referring to recent remarks by PoK?s Prime Minister Anwarul Haq, Singh said, "The venom spewed by PoK's illegal Prime Minister is part of Pakistan?s long-standing anti-India agenda."
PoK: The Jewel in India?s Crown
Singh reiterated that PoK is the "jewel in the crown of India" and reaffirmed India?s commitment to the region. "In any case, PoK is nothing more than foreign territory for Pakistan," he stated.
During the event, Singh hoisted a 108-foot national flag and inaugurated a heritage museum in Akhnoor, underscoring the government?s commitment to bridging the gap between Kashmir and the rest of India.
Article 370 and Changing Realities
Highlighting the abrogation of Article 370 as a key milestone, Singh stated, "Our government has made significant progress in ending terrorism by removing Article 370. Today, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has changed considerably. However, J&K is incomplete without PoK."
Historical Reflections
Singh also reflected on the 1965 war, noting that the Indian forces had hoisted the tricolour on Haji Pir but strategic gains were lost during negotiations. "If this had not happened, the infiltration routes of terrorists could have been closed back then," he remarked.
He added, "Even today, more than 80 per cent of terrorists entering India come from Pakistan. If the strategic advantages gained on the battlefield in 1965 had been leveraged, the terrorism plaguing us across the border could have ended long ago."
