Goal of overall development in J-K, Ladakh will be achieved once we reach Gilgit and Baltistan, Rajnath Singh says in Srinagar

Samaan Lateef

Srinagar, October 27

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated New Delhi’s resolve to take over Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), saying all the refugees will get their land and homes back.

Singh said the goal of overall development in the twin Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh would be achieved “after reaching Gilgit and Baltistan” — parts of PoK.

“We’ve just started walking North. Our journey will complete only when we implement the resolution passed unanimously in the Indian Parliament on February 22, 1994, and accordingly reach our remaining parts, such as Gilgit and Baltistan,” Singh said addressing the ‘Shaurya Diwas’ event — enactment of the landing at Srinagar by Indian Air Force on this day in 1947.

The February 22, 1994, Parliament resolution says Pakistan must vacate part of Kashmir under its illegal occupation.

The Defence Minister said the dream of Sardar Valabhai Patel would be fulfilled when all the refugees of 1947 would get their land and homes back. “And I assure you that day will come,” Singh said.

“The Pakistan government is sowing the seeds of hatred in PoK and time is not far when people will resort to mass rebellion there,” Singh said.

India observes October 27 as ‘Infantry Day (Shaurya Diwas)–Budgam Landing Enactment’ on this day at Srinagar airport. The Army on this day fought Pakistani invaders and pushed them back.

“Before the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmiri society was divided into segments, but post-August 5, 2019, all sections of society are collectively marching towards success and prosperity,” Singh said. “It is just a beginning.”

He said the revocation of Article 370 started a new beginning in J&K.

In 1947, the Indian Army gave a befitting reply to raiders who tried to play mischief by occupying Kashmir illegally, he said.

He said the Infantry Day reminds “us to renew our pledge to root out our enemies and protect the country’s sovereignty.”

Singh hailed the soldiers for their valour and commitment towards protecting the borders and taking the country to new heights