Sachin Pilot Criticizes US Claims on Ceasefire and Kashmir: ‘The Issue Is Terror, Not Kashmir’

New Delhi, 14 May 2025 — Sachin Pilot, the General Secretary of AICC, has voiced strong concerns regarding the recent statements made by the US President that linked the Kashmir issue with trade and ceasefire negotiations. Pilot emphasized that the real issue in Kashmir is not the territory itself, but the terrorism that has been supported by Pakistan, particularly by its ISI and military.

Pilot criticized the American administration for its failure to address terrorism directly, stating that the US President has not once mentioned the critical aspect of terrorism. He pointed out that the growing support for terrorism from Pakistan, particularly from state-sponsored groups, is a matter of grave concern. He stressed the need for the Indian government to clarify its position on the matter.

"The issue is not Kashmir, the issue is terror. The groundswell of support that terrorists are getting from the Pakistani side, from ISI and the army... And the US President, not once has he mentioned the word terror," said Pilot.

He further added that the Indian government must clear the air on these claims and take a strong stance on how foreign nations perceive the situation in Kashmir.

What Did the US President Say?

In a recent speech, the US President had linked the ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan with trade interests. The President had implied that resolving the Kashmir issue was critical to improving trade relations between the two countries, a statement that did not sit well with Indian leaders, especially considering the terrorism angle.

Pilot’s Strong Stand

Sachin Pilot’s remarks have added to the growing chorus of voices questioning the international community's approach to the Kashmir issue. Pilot reaffirmed the Indian stance that terrorism is the primary issue and must be dealt with before any talks on trade or ceasefire can proceed.

Conclusion:
Sachin Pilot’s statement comes at a time when relations between India and the US are being scrutinized, particularly in light of US statements that appear to minimize the role of terrorism in the Kashmir conflict. Pilot's emphasis on terrorism over territory reflects a broader political sentiment in India, urging the government to take a firmer stance on how external nations discuss Kashmir.