India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, on Friday called on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to reconsider its recent $1 billion loan to Pakistan, alleging that the funds may be used to support terrorist activities.
Speaking to air force personnel in western India, Singh said, “I believe a significant portion of this IMF loan will be directed towards funding terror infrastructure. Providing economic assistance to Pakistan is akin to funding terrorism.”
His remarks come after the IMF approved the latest review of Pakistan’s bailout programme, unlocking $1 billion and clearing a path for an additional $1.4 billion. India, which represents several South Asian nations on the IMF board, abstained from the vote, citing concerns over Pakistan’s track record with previous IMF programmes.
Singh further warned that the alignment between Pakistan’s government and terrorist networks could lead to global security threats, particularly involving nuclear weapons.
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated following an April attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 civilians. India blamed Pakistan-backed militants and responded with airstrikes on alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan on May 7. Four days of missile, drone, and artillery exchanges left around 70 people dead, including many civilians, before a ceasefire began on May 11.
Pakistan has denied supporting the militants involved in the Kashmir attack.
