Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has made a significant call for international oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, urging the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to intervene. Speaking at the Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, Singh raised concerns about the safety and management of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, describing the country as “irresponsible” and “rogue.” His remarks come in the context of heightened tensions following the largest military confrontation between India and Pakistan in nearly three decades.
Addressing Indian troops stationed in Kashmir, Singh emphasized the precision and determination of the Indian armed forces. He noted, “The world knows that our army’s aim is accurate, and when they hit the target, they leave the counting to the enemy.” He further highlighted India’s resolve against terrorism, stating the nation did not succumb to Pakistan’s nuclear blackmail.
Singh’s pronouncement is particularly poignant, coming from a location that has seen recent cross-border hostilities. He questioned, “Are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation?” Singh urged that the IAEA should assume responsibility for monitoring Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities.
This public address coincided with Singh’s first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory military strategy launched by India on May 7 aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Following Indian precision strikes, Pakistan attempted counter-strikes targeting Indian military installations on May 8, 9, and 10. India’s response included missile strikes on eight Pakistani airbases on May 10. The situation de-escalated after high-level military discussions between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations.
Praising the Indian armed forces, Singh acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as instrumental in the operation’s success. “I may be your defence minister, but first I am a citizen of India. The entire country is proud of what you did under the leadership of our Prime Minister,” he remarked. Additionally, he commended the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their collective resolve against terrorism.
During his two-day visit, Singh is set to receive comprehensive briefings from senior military officials at the XV Corps headquarters in Srinagar. This is intended to assess the current security landscape and evaluate the preparedness of frontline forces along the Line of Control and International Border.
The visit underscores New Delhi’s assertive posture in the region and reflects growing global concerns about nuclear stability in South Asia amidst escalating tensions.
