Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a strong message to Pakistan on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, asserting that India will not engage in any dialogue with its neighbour except on the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Speaking at the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations, Singh paid tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War and praised the Indian Armed Forces for their courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
Recalling India’s victory in the Kargil conflict, the Defence Minister said the war remains a symbol of the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who successfully reclaimed strategic positions infiltrated by Pakistani forces. He noted that the victory demonstrated India’s military strength and its resolve to defend every inch of its territory.
Addressing India-Pakistan relations, Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s long-standing position, stating that if any talks are held with Pakistan, they will be limited solely to the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
“There will be no talks with Pakistan on any issue other than PoK,” he said, underlining that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and that PoK remains an inseparable part of the country.
The Defence Minister also praised the armed forces for their continued vigilance along India’s borders and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping them with modern technology and the necessary resources to protect national security.
During the event, Singh paid homage to the martyrs of the Kargil War, remembering the sacrifices of the brave soldiers who fought under extremely challenging conditions in the high-altitude mountains of Ladakh. He urged the nation to draw inspiration from their patriotism, courage, and dedication.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to commemorate India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War, when the Indian Army successfully drove out Pakistani intruders from strategic peaks in the Kargil sector after weeks of intense fighting. The day serves as a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the country’s armed forces and their enduring commitment to defending India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The commemorations across the country included tributes to the fallen heroes, wreath-laying ceremonies, and messages of gratitude from national leaders, reaffirming the nation’s respect for the brave men and women who serve in uniform.
