Hardeep Puri Condemns Pakistan's Role in Pahalgam Terror Attack and Promises Strong Retaliation

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri criticised Pakistan for the Pahalgam terror attack, stating that the neighbouring country will be forced into submission to prevent future acts of terrorism. He described Pakistan as a nation in decline, frequently using terrorism as a state policy tool. "I think they have miscalculated this time," Puri remarked, emphasising India's strong leadership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Relations between India and Pakistan, already tense, worsened after the Pahalgam attack. New Delhi responded with several measures, including expelling Pakistani military attaches and suspending the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960. The Attari land-transit post was also shut down immediately due to alleged cross-border links to the attack.

India's Diplomatic Response

Puri highlighted that suspending the Indus Waters Treaty was unprecedented for India, aiming to impose significant costs on Pakistan. He refrained from speculating on further actions but reiterated that Pakistan would be subdued to deter future aggression. "The western neighbour will be brought to its knees," he stated at an event in Mohali.

The Pahalgam attack resulted in the deaths of 26 people, mostly tourists, when terrorists opened fire near the tourist town in south Kashmir's Anantnag district. Puri condemned the act as despicable, noting that terrorism strips away the fundamental human right to life. Among those killed were 25 tourists and a ponywalla, with several others injured.

Economic Growth and Stability

Speaking at a symposium on electoral reforms at a private university, Puri noted India's economic progress under Modi's leadership. He mentioned that India has risen from the tenth to the fifth largest economy globally and is projected by the International Monetary Fund to become the fourth largest soon and third by 2027 or 2028.

Puri stressed that economic growth requires a conducive environment, citing law and order as crucial for entrepreneurial success. He contrasted India's economic achievements with Pakistan's reliance on terrorism as state policy. Reflecting on Partition in 1947, he remarked that both nations emerged from the same origin but have taken divergent paths since independence.

Puri concluded by emphasising India's commitment to maintaining security and stability while fostering an environment conducive to economic growth. He reiterated that under Modi's leadership, India is poised for continued advancement on the global stage.