SRINAGAR: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that India is willing to initiate dialogue with Pakistan, but only if Pakistan ceases its support for militant activities. Speaking in Jammu, Singh emphasized that improved relations with Pakistan are contingent on the latter stopping its involvement in terrorism.

At a rally in Ramban, Jammu, Singh expressed that while India desires better relations with its neighbor, the current support for terrorism by Pakistan poses a significant barrier. "Pakistan should stop supporting terrorism. Improving relations with neighboring countries is important, but Pakistan must first halt its militant activities," Singh said. He added that dialogue with Pakistan will only commence once the country stops sponsoring terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Singh also addressed the impact of Article 370's abrogation, stating that it has significantly contributed to the development and peace in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that the region is seeing positive changes, with young people now focusing on education and technology rather than violence.

The Defence Minister reflected on past efforts to engage with the Hurriyat Conference, which had been unsuccessful. "In 2016, we sent a delegation to meet with Hurriyat leaders to restore peace, but they refused to engage. Despite withdrawing cases against young individuals involved in unrest, the response was not as hoped," Singh said.

Singh also criticized National Conference leader Omar Abdullah for his comments regarding the execution of Afzal Guru, a convict in the 2001 Parliament attack case.

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