Bhuj (Gujarat), May 16 (KNO): In a strong message to the international community, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday cautioned that Pakistan’s close ties with terror outfits pose a grave danger to global peace, warning that it would be no surprise if nuclear weapons in the neighbouring country fall into the hands of terrorists.
Addressing the air warriors at the air force station at Bhuj, Singh, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) accused the Pakistan establishment of actively supporting terrorism and rebuilding terror infrastructure destroyed by Indian forces during ‘Operation Sindoor,’ India’s military retaliation to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 civilians, mostly tourists dead.
“It has been proven beyond doubt that there is a strong nexus between Pakistan and terrorists. In such circumstances, if nuclear weapons fall into the hands of terrorists, no one should be surprised. It is not just a threat to India, but to the entire world,” he said.
Rajnath Singh was on a visit to honour and congratulate the Indian Air Force for its swift and precise response during ‘Operation Sindoor,’ which was launched under the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack.
BHUJ: SYMBOL OF INDIA’S STRENGTH
Calling Bhuj a “witness to India’s victories in 1965, 1971, and 2025,” Singh praised the strategic importance of the air base and the bravery of India’s air warriors. “The Indian Air Force not only dismantled the terror network within minutes but also struck deep into enemy territory without even crossing the border. Our aircrafts are capable of neutralising enemy targets from within Indian airspace,” he stated.
He highlighted how “Operation Sindoor,” named by PM Modi himself, sent a strong signal to the world about India's capabilities and determination to root out terrorism. “You entered their land and decimated their terror infrastructure. You have sent the message of a ‘New India’—strong, decisive, and self-reliant—to the entire world,” he said, commending IAF Chief and all personnel involved.
PAK’S TERROR FUNDING EXPOSED
The Defence Minister alleged that Pakistan is planning to divert a portion of the $2.1 billion IMF aid it is set to receive, to rebuild terror infrastructure for groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
He claimed that Islamabad has earmarked Rs 14 crore for Jaish chief Masood Azhar, a UN-designated terrorist and mastermind of deadly attacks such as the 2019 Pulwama and 2016 Uri strikes. “Pakistan will use the tax money collected from its citizens to fund Masood Azhar and rebuild terror infrastructure in places like Muridke and Bahawalpur. This is a clear case of indirect terror financing, and if the IMF’s aid is used for this purpose, it becomes complicit. The funds contributed by nations like India to the IMF must not be misused to promote terrorism,” Singh warned.
Singh called upon the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to reconsider its one-billion-dollar assistance to Islamabad and refrain from providing any support in future as well.
INDIA HAS PUT PAK ON PROBATION
He also expressed deep concern that Pakistan had started reviving terror training camps and logistical hubs dismantled by Indian forces. “This rebuilding effort must be seen as a deliberate provocation. India has put Pakistan on probation—we are watching its every move. Any misadventure will invite a heavy price,” he said firmly.
He asserted that the current ceasefire means that India has kept Pakistan on probation on the basis of its behavior. If the behavior improves, it is fine; but if there is any disturbance, harshest punishment will be given, he said.
Singh stated that India’s war against terrorism is now a central element of the National Defence Doctrine, and the government is committed to wiping out proxy and hybrid warfare.
“This is not the old Bharat anymore. Under the leadership of PM Modi, India has drawn a red line on terrorism. We do not tolerate, we retaliate. That is the New India,” Singh declared.
IAF SPEARHEADED ‘OPERATION SINDOOR’
The Defence Minister said that IAF spearheaded ‘Operation Sindoor’ “The IAF not only dominated the enemy, but decimated them,” he added.
Singh highlighted that India’s fighter aircraft are capable of striking every corner of Pakistan without crossing the border. “The world has witnessed how IAF destroyed terror camps and later Pakistan’s airbases. IAF gave the proof that India's war policy and technology have changed. They conveyed the message of New India that we are not just dependent on weapons and platforms imported from aboard, but Made in India equipment have become a part of our military power. The weapons manufactured in India are also impenetrable,” he said.
The Defence Minister said, “Pakistan has itself accepted the power of the ‘BrahMos’ missile. This Made in India missile showed Pakistan the light of day in the darkness of night.”
He also lauded India's air defence system, in which Akash and other radar systems made by DRDO have played a tremendous role.
WORLD HAS SEEN TRAILER ONLY
Referring to the success of Operation Sindoor, Singh described it as “just a trailer,” adding, “When the time comes, we will show the full movie to the world.” He underlined India’s transformation into a defence powerhouse, moving from a major arms importer to a growing arms exporter.
“Earlier we used to import weapons, today we manufacture our own arms and ammunition. This is a matter of national pride and a testament to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat,” he said.
While extending heartfelt gratitude to the armed forces, Singh said, “Every child in India considers you their hero. On behalf of the nation, I thank you for your bravery and sacrifice. You have made every citizen believe that this New India does not remain silent—it gives a befitting reply.”
Reinforcing the government’s unwavering commitment to national security, the Defence Minister said, “For us, the new normal is simple—if anyone dares to target India, they will face the full might of our armed forces.”—(KNO)