NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated on Monday that India chose not to respond immediately to the recent 50% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump, citing the nation’s “broad-minded and big-hearted” nature. During an interaction with the Indian community in Morocco, Singh remarked, “We didn’t react… Those who are broad-minded and big-hearted do not react to anything immediately.”
The US tariff, which includes a 25% penalty on purchases of Russian oil, affects Indian exports entering the American market. Singh is currently in Morocco for a two-day official visit.
In his remarks, the Defence Minister expressed confidence that India would regain control of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) without aggressive measures. He noted that there are increasing calls for freedom from the existing administration within the region. “PoK will be ours on its own. Demands have started being made in PoK; you must have heard sloganeering,” he said.
Singh reiterated his stance from five years ago during an address to the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that India would not need to launch an attack to reclaim PoK, as he believes the region will declare itself part of India. “That day will come,” he affirmed.
His comments follow recent criticisms from opposition leaders who alleged that the government “missed the chance” to capture PoK after Operation Sindoor on May 7, which resulted in the downing of multiple Pakistani jets. Opponents have accused the Central government of negotiating a ceasefire despite having the upper hand during the operation.
