In a resolute stance, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday reiterated that India will not succumb to nuclear blackmail or tolerate cross-border terrorism. Speaking at a media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India’s recent military actions were confined strictly to the conventional domain, refuting any suggestions of a nuclear dimension in the recent tensions with Pakistan.
Jaiswal addressed speculation surrounding a reported meeting of Pakistan’s National Command Authority on May 10, clarifying that the meeting was later denied by Pakistani authorities, including their Foreign Minister who has “on record” dismissed any nuclear aspect. “India has a firm stance that it will not give into nuclear blackmail or allow cross-border terrorism into invoking it,” Jaiswal stressed, underscoring India’s commitment to maintaining peace and security without compromising its sovereignty.
Providing details on the recent ceasefire agreement, Jaiswal confirmed that the understanding was finalized directly between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations. The agreement followed a formal request from Pakistan’s High Commission, with a phone call eventually taking place at 15:35 hrs on May 10 after initial technical delays. He credited India’s assertive military posture for compelling Pakistan to stop hostilities, declaring, “Our message was clear and consistent.”
Jaiswal issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating, “That a nation which has nurtured terrorism on an industrial scale should think that it can escape the consequences is fooling itself.” He reiterated that the terrorist infrastructure targeted by Indian forces was not only responsible for the deaths of Indian citizens but also for numerous innocent lives across the globe. “There is now a new normal. The sooner Pakistan gets it, the better it is,” he said.
In a major policy decision, the MEA also confirmed that India has placed the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, following a directive from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). “The IWT was concluded in the spirit of goodwill and friendship. However, Pakistan has violated these principles by promoting cross-border terrorism for decades,” said Jaiswal. The treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably renounces terrorism.
