Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday issued a strong warning to Pakistan over its alleged support for terrorism, stating that India would not allow the waters of the Indus river system to benefit those who sponsor terror activities. Speaking at an Intellectuals Meet organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party in Hyderabad, Singh said the government’s recent actions reflected its commitment to safeguarding national interests and responding firmly to security threats.

Referring to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said countries supporting terrorism should not expect normal relations with India. He reiterated the government’s position that water-sharing arrangements cannot continue unaffected when cross-border terrorism remains a concern. His remarks echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier statement that “blood and water cannot flow together,” a phrase that has become central to India’s response following the attack.

The Defence Minister also highlighted Operation Sindoor, saying the initiative demonstrated India’s ability to respond decisively to forces that do not respect peace and harmony. According to Singh, the operation sent a clear message internationally that India is prepared to take strong measures against threats to its security while maintaining its commitment to protecting national sovereignty.

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The Indus Waters Treaty, signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, has long been regarded as one of the most significant water-sharing agreements in the world. Following the Pahalgam attack, India announced that it would place the treaty in abeyance until Pakistan takes what New Delhi describes as credible and irreversible steps to end support for cross-border terrorism. The move marked a major shift in India’s approach toward bilateral agreements with its neighbour.

During his address, Singh also reviewed the achievements of the National Democratic Alliance government over the past twelve years. He cited the abrogation of Article 370, the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax, nationwide electrification efforts, judicial reforms, and progress in reducing Naxal-related violence. He said several measures once considered politically difficult had been successfully implemented under the current administration.

Speaking on Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said the region has witnessed significant changes in recent years. He pointed to increasing tourism, rising investment opportunities, employment generation, and the revival of cultural and social activities. According to the minister, developments such as the reopening of cinema halls, peaceful religious processions, and the display of the national flag at Srinagar’s Lal Chowk reflect a broader transformation taking place in the Union Territory.

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