Daijiworld Media Network - Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu & Kashmir, May 15: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday raised serious concerns about the safety and accountability of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, calling for international oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
During an interaction with troops in Jammu and Kashmir—his first visit since the successful completion of Operation Sindoor—Singh made a pointed statement questioning whether nuclear weapons were secure in the hands of what he termed a “rogue and irresponsible nation.” He asserted, “I want to raise a question before the entire world: Are nuclear weapons safe in the hands of Pakistan? Their control should be placed under the monitoring of the International Atomic Energy Agency.”
The IAEA, a global nuclear watchdog, is responsible for promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies. Singh’s remarks suggest India may push for a more formal mechanism to keep Pakistan’s nuclear assets under surveillance.
The defence minister's visit to Jammu and Kashmir is focused on reviewing the prevailing security landscape, particularly along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border. He is being briefed by top military commanders on current operations, combat readiness, and regional developments, particularly in the aftermath of heightened tensions earlier this month.
On May 7, India launched precision strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure, marking a strong counter-terror operation. In response, Pakistan attempted retaliatory strikes against Indian military installations on May 8, 9, and 10. India responded forcefully on May 10 by striking eight Pakistani air bases using missiles and long-range weaponry.
These hostilities culminated in a de-escalation after high-level talks between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries, resulting in a mutual understanding to halt further military action.
The defence minister also reviewed the readiness and morale of frontline troops at the Indian Army’s XV Corps headquarters in Srinagar, reaffirming the government’s commitment to national security and zero tolerance for cross-border terrorism.