Amit Shah Visits Poonch, Says Pakistan Cannot Derail J&K's Progress

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday (30 May) reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to uninterrupted development in Jammu and Kashmir, declaring that provocations from across the border will not derail progress in the region.

Speaking at an event in Poonch, where he distributed appointment letters to families of civilians killed in Pakistani shelling, Shah said, as quoted by Deccan Herald, “The progress of Jammu and Kashmir will not be derailed. The Prime Minister’s vision for a developed, peaceful UT will be fulfilled.”

He described recent disruptions as only a “momentary pause” and emphasised the government’s unwavering focus on peace, prosperity, and security.

Shah assured the victims’ families of the Centre’s full support, noting that while jobs or compensation can never truly make up for their loss, “this initiative is a gesture of solidarity from the Jammu and Kashmir administration, the central government, and the entire country.”

He also detailed “Operation Sindoor,” in which Indian forces reportedly destroyed terrorist infrastructure across the border. Clarifying that only terrorist camps were targeted, not civilians or Pakistani forces, he said Pakistan retaliated by shelling civilian areas, including religious sites. In response, Shah claimed Indian forces struck back, destroying nine Pakistani air bases, forcing Islamabad to seek a ceasefire.

“India will not tolerate terrorism on its soil. Our response will be strong and decisive,” he warned.

Reiterating India's stance, Shah said, “Terror and trade cannot go together. Blood and water cannot flow together. This is our firm stand, and we will combat every act of terrorism with full strength.”

Referring to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, Shah praised locals for their unity and defiance. “The way people rose in defiance against terror sends a powerful message: such acts will not be tolerated,” he said.

His visit comes amid heightened border tensions, underscoring the government’s dual focus on development and security in Jammu and Kashmir.

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