Jaitley says Opposition is not celebrating Azhar's global terrorist tag
The Opposition is not celebrating Masood Azhar's designation as a global terrorist as they may have to pay a political price, said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday. Accompanied by his cabinet colleague Nirmala Sitharaman, Jaitley called it a "win for every Indian". Defense Minister Sitharaman said Prime Minister Narendra Modi succeeded in isolating Pakistan on the global stage. Here's more.
With new restrictions, Azhar won't be able to roam freely
After years of efforts, UNSC finally labeled Azhar, the founder of Jaish-e-Mohammed, as a global terrorist. China saved Azhar four times and put a technical hold after France moved the plea after the Pulwama attack. Now, Azhar will be subject to a travel ban and his assets will be frozen. Syed Akbaruddin, India's ambassador to UN, said this was possible due to combined efforts.
Jaitley revealed why China changed its mind
Speaking on China's change of heart, Jaitley said the neighboring country found no objections after it carefully studied the new material. He said the fact that Jaish-e-Mohammed's camp was attacked by IAF in Balakot also contributed to changing China's mindset. He said India had been trying to get Azhar listed as UN-designated terrorist for ten years, and it became possible under PM Modi's leadership.
Opposition is not celebrating India's win: Jaitley
"If India wins, Indians win, but there are friends in Opposition who are not celebrating it as they may have to pay a political price for it," said Jaitley. He added India spoke in unison in matters of national security, but that attitude has changed.
Jaitley claimed Army wasn't given freedom earlier
Jaitley said India had a defective position after 26/11. "One of the former service chiefs said he wanted to strike back but then Prime Minister had said no," he added. The senior leader said Shahid Latif was released as a goodwill gesture and he went on to play important role in Pathankot attack. Meanwhile, Sitharaman said terrorism won't be tolerated.
PM Modi's visits turned out to be successful: Sitharaman
Reportedly, China wanted to push date, US wasn't ready
According to ET, China wanted to delay Azhar's listing till May 15, citing Lok Sabha polls in India. However, the US didn't budge. Washington told Beijing that it won't wait for more than a week after April 23. While China suggested May 6 as the day to lift the hold, it settled for May 1. China gave a written assurance last week.
