Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a firm address at a public gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Rae Bareli on May 12, asserting India’s sovereignty over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and dismissing any notions of relinquishing the territory, despite Pakistan’s possession of nuclear capabilities.
Addressing the crowd, Shah posed a rhetorical question, “Should we abandon PoK just because Pakistan has nuclear weapons?” He reiterated India’s unwavering stance, declaring, “I assure you today, we are not afraid of nuclear weapons. PoK is an integral part of India and will remain so.”
Additionally, during an election rally in Pratapgarh, Shah emphasized that while Rahul Gandhi may be intimidated by Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, the BJP stands firm.
Shah’s statements come amid controversy stirred by veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar’s remarks on Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal. Aiyar’s comments, advocating for dialogue with Pakistan, garnered criticism.
Earlier, Shah criticized the Congress in Hyderabad on May 11, accusing the party of being willing to compromise India’s rights over PoK due to fears of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons. He also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with swift military responses to terrorist attacks by Pakistani militants.
Prior to the Rae Bareli address, Shah reaffirmed the BJP’s stance on PoK at an election rally in Jharkhand’s Khunti on May 10. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking in Odisha’s Kandhamal on May 11, mocked Pakistan’s economic struggles, highlighting challenges in selling its nuclear weapons.
