Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took aim at supporters of “terrorism” in his Independence Day speech on Monday, ratcheting up criticism of Pakistan while avoiding direct mention of month-long protests in Indian-ruled Kashmir. But on the other hand, look at those who glorify terrorists. Stoking the fires, Pakistan chose to dedicate its I-Day to Kashmir’s freedom with a pledge of diplomatic, political and moral support to the struggle inviting a strong retaliation from India as minister of state in PMO Jitendra Singh asserted that the “only outstanding issue” was to liberate parts of the state under “illegal occupation of Islamabad”. “What kind of people celebrate when people are killed?”
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The invite came days after union home minister Rajnath Singh addressed Parliament on the Kashmir issue and said that India was willing to discuss only Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) with Pakistan, and that the question of discussing Jammu and Kashmir with Islamabad just does not arise.
Modi’s references to Balochistan and Pakistani Kashmir had not gone down well with Pakistan.
“Violence has no place in our country”.
“All those who are killing innocents.I want to tell them that this country will not tolerate terrorism and militancy. The road of militancy and terrorism does not help anyone”.
He explained how certian shortcomings were hindering India’s progress.
“Pakistan Army DGMO contacted his Indian counterpart on hot line this afternoon and strongly protested for unprovoked firing by Indian troops on LoC at Nezapir sector targeting Pakistani posts and civilians after midnight today which lasted till late morning”, said a press release issued by ISPR on August 14. He urged people to fight against such practices and strengthen social harmony for an overall development of the country.
“We have to take everyone together be it Dalits, tribals, oppressed and people from the financially weaker section”.
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On the economic front, Modi said major global rating agencies now ranked India as one of the best investment destinations in the world.
