New Delhi: As India continues to assert its claims over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has made a bold prediction: the people of PoK will soon push for assimilation into India. This assertion comes amidst a backdrop of India’s growing global stature and economic development, which Singh believes will draw the region closer to India. Additionally, the BJP, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been emphasizing its commitment to fulfilling promises, a trait that Singh highlights as unique in Indian politics. The Defence Minister also weighs in on several national issues, including delimitation and the One Nation, One Election initiative.
Rajnath Singh is confident that the people of PoK will increasingly see their future tied to India due to the country’s rapid economic growth and rising global influence. He suggests that this shift in sentiment could lead to a scenario where the people of PoK might not even require Pakistan’s consent to join India. This perspective reflects India’s long-standing claim over the region, which has been a point of contention with Pakistan for decades.
Singh also addressed concerns raised by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin regarding the proposed delimitation exercise in 2026. He advised Stalin not to hinder the process, assuring that delimitation would lead to an increase in the number of seats in all states, not just North India. This clarification aims to alleviate fears that delimitation might disproportionately benefit certain regions.
India is keen on maintaining good relations with its neighbours, including Bangladesh. Singh emphasized the importance of these relationships, echoing former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s stance that neighbours cannot be changed. On the domestic front, Singh supports the One Nation, One Election initiative, citing its potential to save substantial resources and enhance governance by synchronizing various elections across the country.
The BJP, under Modi’s leadership, has been credited with addressing the credibility crisis in Indian politics by consistently fulfilling its promises. This commitment is highlighted through initiatives like the Delhi government’s Mahila Samriddhi Yojana, which provides monthly assistance to poor women, demonstrating the party’s ability to deliver on election commitments.
