Pakistan has strongly condemned recent comments made by India’s Defence Minister regarding Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities, delivered today in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan described the statements as “irresponsible,” reflecting the Indian minister’s deep insecurity and frustration over Pakistan’s robust defense and deterrence posture against Indian aggression through conventional means. He emphasized that Pakistan’s conventional forces are sufficient to deter India without relying on the so-called “nuclear blackmail” that India allegedly employs.
The spokesperson also criticized the Defence Minister’s lack of understanding of the role and responsibilities of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a specialized United Nations body tasked with monitoring nuclear activities.
Highlighting India’s own security issues, the spokesperson raised concerns about repeated incidents of nuclear material theft and illicit trafficking within India. He urged the IAEA and international community to focus on these matters instead.
He cited several recent cases, including the discovery last year of five individuals in possession of a radioactive device reportedly stolen from India’s Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Dehradun. Additionally, a criminal group was found with illegal possession of Californium—a highly radioactive and toxic substance valued at $100 million. Multiple thefts of Californium were also reported in 2021.
The spokesperson questioned the effectiveness of New Delhi’s measures to safeguard its nuclear and radioactive materials, suggesting that these incidents indicate the presence of a black market for sensitive dual-use materials inside India.
Pakistan has called for thorough investigations into these incidents and urged India to ensure the safety and security of its nuclear facilities and arsenal.
Earlier today, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh demanded that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons be placed under the supervision of the UN’s nuclear watchdog. He questioned whether nuclear arms could be safely held by what he termed a “rogue and irresponsible” nation, insisting that Pakistan’s atomic arsenal should be monitored by the IAEA.
