The recent statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh regarding Bharat’s stance on dealing with terrorists in their homes have drawn a response from the United States. The Joe Biden administration highlighted its longstanding encouragement for Bharat and Pakistan to prioritise dialogue and de-escalation in resolving conflicts but clarified that it would not intervene directly in the matter.
During a press briefing, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed PM Modi’s “ghar mai ghus ke maarenge or our forces will kill terrorists on their own turf” statement about taking action against terrorists. Miller stated, “The United States remains steadfast in its position of non-involvement in such matters. However, we continue to urge both Bharat and Pakistan to exercise restraint and seek peaceful resolutions through dialogue.”
Miller’s remarks came in response to inquiries regarding Bharat’s purported counterterrorism operations in foreign territories.
When asked if PM Modi and Defence Minister Singh’s remarks can be seen as “confessions” on the alleged “assassination of (Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh) Nijjar in Canada and murder plot of (designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh) Pannun in New York, and killings in Pakistan”, Miller said the US will not meddle in the matter.
Besides, the State department spokesperson was quizzed on why the US has not imposed any sanctions on Bharat over the alleged plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Miller replied, “I am never going to preview any sanctions actions, which is not to say that there are any coming. But when you ask me to talk about sanctions, it’s something that we don’t discuss openly.”
Earlier this month, Rajnath Singh issued a stern statement on Bharat’s approach to counter terrorism across the borders saying if terrorists attempt to disturb peace in Bharat or execute terror activities, a befitting reply will be given. Singh further said if these terrorists abscond to Pakistan, Bharat will enter the neighbouring nation to kill them.
Seconding Rajnath Singh’s stance at an election rally in Uttarakhand recently, PM Modi said, “Whenever we have had a weak government in the country, our enemies have taken advantage. Under this strong government, atankwaadiyon ko ghar mein ghus ke mara jata hai.”
