Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal to be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), citing concerns over Islamabad’s “irresponsible” handling of nuclear threats. His remarks were made during a speech to Indian armed forces in Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir, on Thursday (May 15).
Rajnath accused Pakistan of using nuclear blackmail against India and questioned whether such weapons are safe in the hands of a “rogue nation.” He urged the international community to act, stating, “Pakistan’s nuclear weapons should be placed under IAEA supervision.”
His statement comes amid escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Singh also praised the people of Jammu and Kashmir for standing united against terrorism and for their strong response to cross-border threats.
India and Pakistan have fought three wars, two over the disputed Kashmir region, and both became nuclear powers in 1998. Tensions recently reignited following military rhetoric from both sides. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned earlier this week that nuclear threats from Pakistan would not deter India from retaliating against terror attacks.
In response, Pakistan condemned Modi’s comments as “provocative and inflammatory,” while reports suggested Islamabad may have hinted at activating its nuclear command, though officials denied any such meeting.
The IAEA, a UN agency based in Vienna, monitors nuclear programs globally to ensure they remain peaceful. Singh’s call for oversight reflects growing international concern over nuclear stability in South Asia—the world’s most volatile nuclear flashpoint.
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