Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has voiced serious concerns regarding the safety of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, suggesting it should be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Singh raised the issue during his visit to Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, questioning whether nuclear weapons are safe in the hands of what he described as an "irresponsible and rogue nation".
Singh's statement comes in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, including recent border skirmishes and artillery fire that resulted in casualties. He made the remarks while addressing Indian soldiers at the Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar. Singh's visit to the Union Territory was his first since the launch of Operation Sindoor.
"I ask the entire world if nuclear weapons are safe in the hands of such an irresponsible and rogue nation," Singh stated. "I believe that Pakistan's nuclear weapons should be taken under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)". He emphasized the need for international oversight to ensure the safety and security of these weapons.
The Defence Minister's statement is a direct message to the international community, urging them to consider the potential risks associated with Pakistan's nuclear capabilities. He believes that such weapons should not be in the possession of "rogue nations".
During his visit, Rajnath Singh assessed the security situation in Kashmir following a ceasefire between India and Pakistan that was announced on May 10. He also addressed Army jawans at the Badami Bagh Cantt in Srinagar, praising their role in Operation Sindoor. "The manner in which you destroyed Pakistani chowkis and bunkers across the border, I think the enemy will never be able to forget it,” Singh said.
Singh also lauded the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their opposition to terrorism. "After the Pahalgam attack, the manner in which the people of Jammu and Kashmir expressed their anger against Pakistan and terrorists – I also salute the people of Jammu and Kashmir," he said. He affirmed his commitment to the armed forces, stating, "Before being your Defence Minister, I am an Indian citizen. Besides being the Defence Minister, I am here to express gratitude to you as an Indian citizen".
The Defence Minister's visit also included a review of the overall security situation and combat readiness of the frontline troops at the Indian Army's XV Corps in Srinagar. Top military officials briefed him on the prevailing security situation.
Earlier, the IAEA told The Indian Express that there had been “no radiation leak” from any nuclear facility in Pakistan after the escalated military engagement with India.