Why Did Union Minister Decline Bouquets at Surat Event Until 'India Avenge Pahalgam Attack'?

Synopsis
Union Minister C.R. Paatil's strong stance reflects India's commitment to justice following the tragic Pahalgam attack. This article explores his refusal of bouquets at a Surat event and the broader implications of India's response to terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Paatil's refusal of bouquets highlights national sentiment.
- India is taking strong actions against terrorism.
- The Indus Waters Treaty suspension is a significant move.
- India aims to emerge as a global investment leader.
- Public support for the government's stance is evident.
Surat, May 54 (NationPress) Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil has declared that he will not accept any welcome bouquets or mementoes until India avenges the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals.
Upon arriving at an investors' conference in Gujarat's Surat city on Saturday, Paatil graciously refused all bouquets and mementoes.
The Union Minister's stance was shared by an organizer who stated that the former “decided he would not be welcomed with bouquets or mementos until Pahalgam is avenged,” prompting applause from the audience.
“No welcome, till there is revenge,” Paatil later expressed in Gujarati.
In light of the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty as part of India's measures against Pakistan, the Union Minister emphasized that New Delhi would not permit a “single drop” of water to flow into Islamabad.
On social media, he stated: “The historic decision taken by the Modi government regarding the Indus Water Treaty is fully justified and in the national interest. We will ensure that not even a drop of water from the Indus River reaches Pakistan.”
Paatil has remained firm regarding his position on the Pahalgam terror attack and Pakistan's involvement.
On April 22, terrorists killed 26 people, mainly tourists, in Baisaran meadow near Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
Additionally, in response to the attack, India took multiple actions against Pakistan, including shutting down the integrated check post at Attari, revoking all visas for Pakistanis, and reducing the overall staff of Pakistan's High Commissions in India.
Speaking at the seventh Global Investor Conference in Surat, Paatil highlighted his meaningful discussions about entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation that are critical to shaping India's future.
“...under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the vision of a ‘Developed India’ is quickly becoming a reality. Today’s India is not merely a consumer but is emerging as a global investment leader,” he posted on X.
The rising tensions between India and Pakistan have prompted significant actions from both sides.
On Saturday, India prohibited the direct or indirect import of all goods from Pakistan with immediate effect.
India also suspended the exchange of all mail and parcels from Pakistan via air and surface routes.
Moreover, New Delhi enforced a ban on Pakistan-flagged ships from entering Indian ports and prohibited Indian-flagged vessels from visiting ports in Pakistan.