Nation must stand united behind armed forces, not tolerate terrorism: HP Minister Vikramaditya Singh

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], May 13 (ANI): The Public Works Department (PWD) Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Vikramaditya Singh, strongly backed the Indian government and armed forces in the aftermath of recent cross-border tensions with Pakistan, urging for national unity above party lines during such crucial moments for the country's internal security and sovereignty.
Speaking to ANI, Vikramaditya Singh said that in such situations, it becomes the duty of every citizen to stand with the armed forces.
"Whenever such issues arise, those that involve national unity, integrity, and internal security, it becomes the duty of every citizen, regardless of political ideology or party affiliation, to stand firmly behind our armed forces. We are Indians first, and we will continue to stand united with our security forces." He said.
The Indian military launched precision strikes on terrorist bases located in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan, particularly targeting camps in Muridke in Punjab and Bhagalpur, believed to be hideouts for Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba militants.
"The way our agencies and armed forces have acted over the past few days, and how our missiles have destroyed terrorist hideouts in PoK and Pakistan, including those of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, is commendable. The whole country is with them. This sends a strong message to the world that India will not tolerate terrorism at any cost," Singh asserted.
Referring to the understanding reached between India and Pakistan to stop military action, he acknowledged that peace is desirable, but added that deterrence remains a priority:
"Of course, we all want peace and harmony. But the Prime Minister has rightly ensured that there's a new normal now--any future terrorist attacks will not distinguish between non-state actors and the Pakistani state. If terrorism is state-sponsored, India will act accordingly." He added.
He praised the opposition's constructive role in the crisis, specifically pointing to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's call for a special session of Parliament, and Mallikarjun Kharge's demand as Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha for a detailed government briefing.
"The opposition has played a positive role. Rahul Gandhi, as Leader of the Opposition, has requested a special Lok Sabha session. Kharge ji has also suggested a government statement. I believe the government must consider this seriously. National unity is vital in such times, and what we show outside Parliament must also be reflected inside," he said.
Touching upon the Indus Waters Treaty, Singh mentioned that the agreement remains under review.
"The treaty is currently in abeyance. But we lack sufficient water holding capacity, proper channelisation systems, or even dams like AIIMS for water retention. If Pakistan-sponsored terrorism continues, India must act decisively. The entire nation is with our forces. But for now, we must adopt a wait-and-watch approach based on how Pakistan responds in the coming days," he said.
He emphasised that national security must not be politicised.
"This is not a political issue. It's about internal security and boosting the morale of our armed forces. Brave soldiers from Himachal Pradesh have laid down their lives. It's a matter of grief but also pride for us." Singh said.
On being asked about the demand to ban apple imports from Turkey due to its strategic alignment with Pakistan and its alleged role in supplying drones used in India, Singh responded strongly.
"Turkey's ties with Pakistan have been sensitive. Many of the drones sent into India have been linked to Turkey and China. The maximum impact of Turkish apple imports is felt by Himachal's apple growers. These imports lower duties and severely hit our Rs 4,500 crore apple economy." He said.
He urged the Central Government to act decisively, saying, "We, along with the Chief Minister, will raise this issue with the Centre. Action must be taken not just economically but also strategically. It's crucial both from a national security and community standpoint." He added. (ANI)