Lucknow (UP), May 9: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh criticized former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi’s characterization of the terrorist attack on the Indian Air Force (IAF) convoy in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, as an ‘election stunt.’ Channi’s comments, made on Sunday following the Poonch militant attack that resulted in the death of an IAF corporal and injuries to four personnel, sparked outrage from the BJP, which accused the Congress of disrespecting soldiers and demanded an apology to the nation.
Speaking at an intellectual gathering in Lucknow, Singh denounced Channi’s remarks, stating, “A former Chief Minister of Punjab referred to a terror attack on Air Force personnel as an election stunt because it occurred during an election. We have such individuals in our country.” He went on to assert that the BJP has effectively addressed terrorism in the nation, acknowledging that while there may still be isolated incidents in Jammu and Kashmir, prior to the BJP government, terrorism was prevalent in most states.
Recalling the 2008 Mumbai attack, Singh highlighted the dismissive response of the then Home Minister to such incidents, stating, “In 2008, when I was the party president, the Mumbai attack occurred and many lives were lost. The then home minister remarked that such minor terror attacks are common.”
Singh emphasized India’s self-reliance in the defence sector, stating that the country no longer depends on other nations for defence equipment and can neutralize threats both within and beyond its borders. He reiterated the BJP’s commitment to nation-building across various domains, envisioning a prosperous India that excels in knowledge, spirituality, and science.
Regarding India’s economic progress, Singh noted the significant leap from the 11th to the 5th largest economy globally, attributing this growth to Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He expressed confidence in India’s trajectory, predicting that it would soon become the third-largest economy globally.
Assuring the public of the safety of Indian borders, Singh called for unity among political parties on matters of national security, urging them to refrain from undermining the valor and bravery of Indian soldiers. He emphasized the importance of bipartisan support for national and border security, transcending political differences for the greater good.
