Speaking to Indian Air Force personnel at the Bhuj air base in Gujarat—an installation targeted by Pakistani forces last week—Singh warned of the consequences of enabling financial support without accountability. “The IMF’s assistance could end up financing terror groups. Pakistan must not receive such aid, or it will be misused for terrorism. We urge the IMF to reconsider its decision,” he stated, delivering a pointed message reflecting India’s concerns over the misuse of international funds for cross-border terrorism.
Singh’s remarks came days after the IMF approved a $1 billion bailout for Pakistan, part of a larger $7 billion package. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from New Delhi, especially at a time of heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Despite India’s reservations, the IMF executive board sanctioned the second tranche, citing Pakistan’s progress in implementing economic reforms and early signs of recovery. The IMF also reaffirmed its commitment to support Pakistan in building resilience against climate change and natural disasters, with an additional $1.4 billion in aid anticipated.
India, however, responded with a strongly worded statement, questioning the prudence of the IMF’s move. It highlighted Pakistan’s poor history with reform compliance and raised serious concerns that the funds might be funneled into supporting “state-sponsored cross-border terrorism”—an allegation repeatedly denied by Islamabad.
Rajnath Singh’s visit to Bhuj followed a trip to Jammu and Kashmir, where he reviewed the security scenario along the Line of Control and the International Border. Before his Bhuj visit, Singh posted on social media, “Leaving New Delhi for Bhuj (Gujarat). Looking forward to interacting with our courageous Air Warriors at Bhuj Air Force Station.”
A day earlier, during an inspection at an airbase in Srinagar, Singh criticised Pakistan for harbouring anti-India elements. He asserted that Pakistan must cease providing refuge to terror outfits and stop allowing its soil to be used for hostile activities against India.
Drawing a contrast between the two countries, Singh noted that while Pakistan is seeking loans from the IMF, India contributes to IMF funds used to assist other nations. At Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, he commended Indian troops for the success of Operation Sindoor and underscored India’s resolute stand against terrorism.
In his first address to personnel following Operation Sindoor, Singh declared that the mission had sent an unequivocal message to terror outfits and their sponsors in Pakistan: “You are not safe anywhere.”
