India’s ‘no first use’ nuclear policy may change in future: Indian defence minister

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that although India has a 'no first use policy' on nuclear weapons it may change in the future depending on the circumstances.

Singh took to his Twitter handle and wrote that India has strictly adhered to the 'No First Use' doctrine. "Till today, our nuclear policy is 'No First Use'. What happens in future depends on the circumstances," he added.

Pokhran is the area which witnessed Atal Ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. What happens in future depends on the circumstances.

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 16, 2019

Tensions between Pakistan and India have soared high after the latter decided to strip off the special status given to Indian occupied Kashmir. Following this, Pakistan vowed to exercise all possible options to counter the neighbouring country’s illegal steps.

Pakistan has also downgraded its diplomatic relations with India and suspended trade between the two countries.