Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sharply criticized the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for continuing to fund Pakistan, alleging that the financial support is indirectly aiding the country’s military aggression and devastation in Indian border regions.
In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Abdullah condemned the IMF’s recent approval of a USD 1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF). He claimed the funds were effectively being used to finance attacks on Indian soil. “I’m not sure how the ‘International Community’ thinks the current tension in the subcontinent will be de-escalated when the IMF essentially reimburses Pakistan for all the ordnance it is using to devastate Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, Tangdhar & so many other places,” Abdullah wrote.
His comments came shortly after the IMF announced it had completed the first review of Pakistan’s reform program, praising Islamabad for its “strong program implementation” and “continuing economic recovery.”
India has consistently opposed any form of international financial assistance to Pakistan, citing its continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism. Sources noted that India abstained from the IMF vote—not due to indifference but because IMF rules do not permit a formal “no” vote. Instead, India used the platform to officially record its objections.
New Delhi highlighted Pakistan’s repeated misuse of international financial aid over the decades, stating that the country has received IMF assistance 28 times over the past 35 years—four times in the last five years alone—with little to no structural reform. It also raised serious concerns about the Pakistan military’s outsized role in economic decision-making, warning that such interference poses “significant risks of policy slippages and reversal of reforms.”
India’s statement referenced a 2021 UN report that described the Pakistan military as the country’s “largest conglomerate,” adding that it now leads the Special Investment Facilitation Council—further blurring the lines between civil governance and military control.
Abdullah’s remarks also came on a day of mourning for Jammu and Kashmir, as Additional District Development Commissioner Raj Kumar Thappa was killed in Pakistani shelling in Rajouri. Omar Abdullah offered his condolences, calling the officer a “dedicated public servant” who had only recently attended meetings with senior officials.
The shelling damaged several homes in Rajouri, sparking panic and causing widespread destruction. Intermittent firing continues along the Line of Control, as India launched retaliatory strikes, reportedly hitting four airbases inside Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence said drones—many suspected to be armed—were spotted at 26 locations along the International Border and LoC. One drone attack in Ferozpur injured a local family, prompting high alert across all border regions. Security forces continue to monitor the situation and engage aerial threats using counter-drone systems.
The government has urged residents in affected areas to stay indoors and remain vigilant. While authorities have stressed there is no immediate need for panic, heightened security and caution are being maintained across northern India.
