Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that borders are subject to change, suggesting Sindh, currently part of Pakistan, might one day rejoin India due to its strong historical and cultural connections. He highlighted the migration of Sindhi families after the 1947 partition and quoted LK Advani, noting Sindhi Hindus’ lingering sense of separation. Singh emphasized the Indus River’s sacred significance for both Hindus and Muslims in Sindh. He recalled his efforts to grant citizenship to immigrant Sindhi families in Delhi, hindered by a lack of majority in Rajya Sabha but later advanced by Amit Shah, a potential reference to Citizenship Amendment Act. Singh had previously expressed confidence in the integration of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir with India.

Highlights

* Defence Minister Rajnath Singh suggested Sindh “may return to India,” emphasizing its civilizational ties.
* He cited Advani, noting Sindhi Hindus haven’t fully accepted Sindh’s separation.
* Singh recalled his efforts to grant citizenship to immigrant Sindhi families, referencing the Citizenship Amendment Act.
* Earlier, Singh expressed confidence that PoK would integrate with India without aggressive steps.

Rajnath Singh Sparks Debate: Could Sindh Return to India?

Borders Are Fluid, Civilizations Endure

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh ignited a passionate discussion on Sunday with remarks suggesting that Sindh, currently part of Pakistan, might one day rejoin India. Singh emphasized the region’s profound civilizational ties to India, stating, "Today, the land of Sindh may not be a part of India, but civilisationally, Sindh will always be a part of India. And as far as land is concerned, borders can change. Who knows, tomorrow Sindh may return to India again?”

This isn’t merely political rhetoric; it’s a reflection of deep-seated cultural and historical connections that resonate with millions.

A Painful Partition, Lingering Memories

The partition of India in 1947 resulted in immense displacement and trauma. Countless Sindhi families were forced to migrate to India, leaving behind their ancestral homes and heritage. Singh referenced the words of former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani, who wrote that many Sindhi Hindus of his generation never fully accepted the separation. This sentiment underscores the emotional weight that the issue carries, decades after the event.

The Sacred Indus: A Lifeline of Culture

The Indus River, flowing through Sindh, is not just a geographical feature; it’s a cultural artery that has nourished the region for millennia.

• Hindus across India consider the Indus sacred.
• Even some Muslims in Sindh revered its waters.
• The river represents shared heritage and spiritual significance.

As Singh poignantly stated, “Our people of Sindh, who hold the Indus River sacred, will always be our own. No matter where they are, they will always be ours.” This evokes a sense of belonging and unwavering connection that transcends political boundaries.

Addressing the Plight of Sindhi Immigrants

Singh also highlighted his efforts to provide citizenship to Sindhi immigrants living in dire conditions in Delhi. He recounted his personal visit to their settlements in 2019, describing their situation as "distressing." While initial attempts to pass legislation faced hurdles, the work continued, potentially referencing the Citizenship Amendment Act. This demonstrates a commitment to addressing the needs and rights of those who were displaced by the Partition.

Echoes of PoK: A Broader Perspective

These comments follow Singh’s earlier remarks in September, where he expressed confidence that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) would integrate with India "without aggressive steps." He noted the growing demands within PoK for reunification.

Key takeaway:

"PoK will be ours on its own. Demands have started being made in PoK, you must have heard sloganeering." -Rajnath Singh

What Does This Mean?

While the possibility of Sindh rejoining India might seem distant, these statements serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring cultural and emotional bonds that connect people across borders. They also highlight the government’s focus on addressing historical grievances and providing support to displaced communities.

Do you believe Sindh could ever be reunited with India? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

FAQ

Okay, here are 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) based on the provided news article:

1. What did Defence Minister Rajnath Singh say about Sindh?

   • Rajnath Singh said that while Sindh is currently part of Pakistan, it has deep civilizational ties with India and hinted that it could potentially return to India in the future.

2. What was the basis for Rajnath Singh’s statement about Sindh?

   • He cited the region’s deep civilizational connection with India, particularly its importance in Hinduism with the Indus River, and the fact that many Sindhi Hindus migrated to India after the Partition of 1947.

3. What specific historical figure did Rajnath Singh mention in connection to Sindh?

   • He mentioned former Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani, citing Advani’s belief that Sindhi Hindus of his generation have never fully accepted the separation of Sindh from India.

4. What did Rajnath Singh say about the Indus River?

   • He emphasized the Indus River’s sacred significance to Hindus and even some Muslims in Sindh, highlighting its cultural and religious importance.

5. What action did Rajnath Singh take regarding Sindhi immigrants in Delhi?

   • He visited Sindhi communities in Delhi living in poor conditions and initiated efforts to grant them proper citizenship through legislation.

6. What happened to the citizenship bill Rajnath Singh introduced?

   • The bill passed in the Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament) but failed to pass in the Rajya Sabha (upper house) due to the NDA’s minority status at the time.

7. Who continued Rajnath Singh’s work on citizenship for immigrants?

   • Amit Shah, the Home Minister, continued the work, potentially referencing the Citizenship Amendment Act.

8. What other territorial statement did Rajnath Singh make recently?

   • He expressed confidence that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) would integrate with India "without aggressive steps," citing demands for it within PoK itself.