RAWALPINDI: Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi on Saturday warned India that any attempt at misadventure will not go unchallenged and also said that entire Pakistani nation stands with its armed forces and will fight together if necessary.

He emphasised that the defense systems of Pakistan are prepared, and the country has not built Ghouri, Ghaznavi, and Shaheen missiles for nothing. The business community’s call for solidarity with the Palestinians, including Gaza, has been very successful, and Pakistan stands with them.

Speaking in a press conference at his residence regarding recent developments with India, the minister said that the Pahalgam incident was just an excuse; the real target was Indus Water Treaty. He added that any misadventure by India will backfire.

Hanif Abbasi said that India is recognised globally as a terrorist state, and false flag operations are being used to blame Pakistan. He further stated that India should understand that if it cuts off the water supply, Pakistan will cut off their air supply.

“The railway system has been placed at the disposal of the Pakistan Army, and the military can use the railway whenever necessary,” he said.

He said that the massacre of Sikhs and other minority communities is also on India’s conscience. India has also been involved in the murder of a Sikh leader in Canada under state sponsorship. He warned that India is trying to mislead the world with false flag operations.

He further stated that over 1,500 Kashmiri students were forcibly taken from various universities, and India is planning to mislead the world with fake encounters of Kashmiris. India is also taking over Muslim-owned properties in Kashmir.

He said that the Pahalgam incident was a part of this larger agenda. He emphasized that India’s desire to settle its people in Kashmir and its violation of the Indus Water Treaty is a clear indication of its sinister intentions.

He also warned India that if it cuts off the water supply, Pakistan will cut off its air supply. And said citizens of India should save themselves from this cynical Modi. This Modi mentality will destroy India from within.

“The National Security Council has strongly represented the voice of the nation, and the leadership has declared that cutting off the water will be considered an act of war,” he said.

Abbasi reiterated that Pakistan’s strategic defense systems, including the Ghouri, Ghaznavi, and Shaheen missiles, are ready, and India should not even think about crossing the borders. Pakistan has strengthened its defenses and is ready to retaliate. He added that Pakistan’s nuclear system is a gift from Nawaz Sharif to the entire nation. We will not deter from using it against India if need arises.

The Minister also highlighted the government’s diplomatic efforts, with Pakistan’s Foreign Office engaging with various countries, ensuring border security, and presenting a unified stance in the face of any aggression. He also praised the Pakistani media for its professionalism, stating that it has always shown seriousness, unlike the Indian media, which is following Modi’s script.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2025