Ramdas Athawale Demands War if Pakistan Refuses to Hand Over PoK After Pahalgam Attack

Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has made a bold statement urging the government to declare war if Pakistan refuses to surrender Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Speaking to reporters in Lonavala on Sunday, the minister of state for social justice condemned the terror assault and emphasized the ongoing threat posed by terrorist activities emanating from PoK.

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“As long as PoK exists, terrorist activities will continue,” Athawale said. He appealed directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “If Pakistan does not hand over PoK voluntarily, India must declare war to reclaim the region.” Athawale stressed that terrorists repeatedly use routes through PoK to infiltrate into India, making it crucial for India to regain control of the area to ensure national security.

The minister’s strong words came in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, where a group of heavily armed terrorists descended from the mountains and targeted tourists in a popular meadow area, resulting in the deaths of 26 people. In response, India has taken several diplomatic and strategic measures, including suspending provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty, scaling down the strength of Pakistan’s High Commission in New Delhi, and cancelling visas previously issued to Pakistani nationals.

Athawale further urged opposition parties to unite and stand with the government during this critical time. “The opposition must support us. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar always taught us that we should stand with the nation when needed,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice. On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with PM Modi at his residence to discuss security measures and future actions.

Meanwhile, the Indian government has also cracked down on Pakistan-linked digital platforms, banning 16 YouTube channels and raising concerns with international media outlets over biased coverage of the Pahalgam incident.

As India hardens its stance against Pakistan, Athawale’s call for assertive action highlights the growing impatience within the political leadership and the public over cross-border terrorism and territorial disputes.