Forget Kashmir, Rajnath tells Pakistan

Defence Minister says Islamabad faces another partition due to its obsession

Updated - October 13, 2019 11:08 pm IST

Published - October 13, 2019 10:05 pm IST - NEW DELHI

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh holds a sword he received as a memento at an election rally in Haryana.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh holds a sword he received as a memento at an election rally in Haryana.

Pakistan should change its ways and forget about Kashmir or it will be split again, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh cautioned on Sunday. He also offered to assist Pakistan in fighting terror.

“Pakistan should forget Kashmir. In 1947, based on two nation theory, India was partitioned. But in 1971 Pakistan again split into two.

If the same situation prevails, then no power of the world can stop Pakistan from disintegrating,” Mr. Singh said at an election rally in Haryana.

He addressed three rallies in the State ahead of Assembly elections on October 21.

‘Fundamentalist forces’

Earlier at a rally in Sonipat, Mr. Singh asked Pakistan to give up support to terrorism while reiterating that India had the ability to fight “fundamentalist forces.”

“I would like to suggest Pakistan work honestly, eliminate terrorism and maintain brotherhood. We are neighbours and we want to walk together,” he said.

If you don't fight terrorism honestly, I clearly state that India has the ability to fight fundamentalist forces,” the Defence Minister added.

Curbing terror

Addressing another rally in Karnal, Mr. Singh told Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan that India was ready to assist in curbing terror on its soil.

“We think Pakistan should fight against terrorism honestly and if it does not have courage to fight against terrorism, then they should seek India’s help. Our government is ready to cooperate to fight against terrorism,” he said.

Continue to fight

Mr. Singh slammed Mr. Khan for his comments that till Kashmir gets freedom, Pakistan would continue to fight for it.

“He also said that his country will continue to raise the Kashmir issue at international forums. Forget about Kashmir. Don't even think about it. Raise the matter, nothing will happen. No one can exert pressure on us,” Mr. Singh countered.

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