NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) president Sharad Pawar on Friday expressed serious doubts over the participation of Pakistani officials in the funerals of militants killed in the course of India's Operation Sindoor, terming the move as a direct refutation of Pakistan's denial of involvement in cross-border terrorism.
Addressing a function in Satara, Pawar stated, "India never supported terrorist movements. What is occurring is a consequence of terrorist activities," citing the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that resulted in 26 deaths. "Though Pakistan denied, its complicity is clear," he added.
He went on to question, "Members of their government were at the funerals of terrorists killed in Indian operations in Pakistan and PoK. If their government played no role, why did their officials go for these funerals?"
Reacting to the severity of the prevailing national security scenario, Pawar emphasized India's ability to manage the crisis with the might of its forces. "Even if the nation is in a serious crisis, our military is fully capable of reacting decisively," he stated.
The NCP(SP) leader was addressing the Rayat Shikshan Sansthan in Satara on the 66th death anniversary of great social reformer and educationist Bhaurao Patil. His daughter, Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule, and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar were also present on the occasion.
Throughout the program, Pawar lauded the increased presence of women in India's armed forces ranks, citing recent leadership by Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh during the formal briefing on Operation Sindoor.
"This indicates that individuals, regardless of their religion, are prepared to make any sacrifice for the integrity and unity of our nation," he stated, praising the spirit of inclusivity in serving in the armed forces.
Reflecting on his own tenure as India’s Defence Minister, Pawar recalled his push for greater female participation in the military. “When I was the defence minister, I had raised the issue of women taking lead roles in the (armed) forces. Initially, all three service chiefs rejected the idea. But in the fourth meeting, I asserted that there should be at least nine per cent representation of women in the armed forces.”
He concluded by reiterating India's long-time commitment to peace and the superiority of its military institutions. "Our defence forces are taking the appropriate precautions. After seeing their performance, every Indian feels proud. Today, the Indian defence forces are prepared to deal with any situation," Pawar said.
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