India's Defence Minister Criticizes Pakistan's Role in Global Terrorism
Rajnath Singh's Strong Remarks on UNSC Decision
India's Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, has expressed strong disapproval regarding the United Nations Security Council's (UNSC) decision to appoint Pakistan as the vice-chair of its counter-terrorism panel. Singh likened this decision to allowing a cat to guard the milk, highlighting Pakistan's notorious history of harboring and supporting terrorists. He pointed out the irony of this decision, especially since the counter-terrorism panel was established in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, during which Pakistan provided refuge to the mastermind behind those attacks. The country has long been a sanctuary for global terrorist organizations.
Concerns Raised Over Pakistan's Terrorism Support
Speaking at an event in Dehradun, Singh noted that notorious terrorists like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar operate freely in Pakistan, with senior military officials even attending their funerals. He questioned how the global community could expect leadership against terrorism from a nation with such a track record. Singh also mentioned that Pakistan is set to chair the Taliban sanctions committee of the UNSC in 2025 and will serve as the vice-chair of the 1373 counter-terrorism committee comprising 15 nations.
He emphasized that Pakistan has consistently provided shelter and training to terrorists, citing the Pahalgam attack as just one example of a long list of incidents involving Pakistan-backed militants. Singh stressed the necessity of dismantling not only these terrorists but the entire support structure that enables them.
Call for Action Against Pakistan's Terror Financing
Singh further asserted that Pakistan's support for terrorism is deeply embedded in its foreign aid, which is often used to finance terrorist infrastructure. He stated, "Funding Pakistan means funding the very foundation of terrorism. Pakistan is a nursery for terrorism and should not be nurtured." He urged other nations to cease financial support to Pakistan.