Calls for Diplomatic Push, Transparency, and Reconsideration by IMF Member Nations
New Delhi, May 10 – The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) on Saturday strongly criticised the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for approving fresh loans to Pakistan, calling on IMF member states to rethink their support in light of Islamabad's alleged continued backing of terrorism.In a statement, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh-affiliated body expressed deep concern over the IMF's approval of a USD 1.4 billion loan to Pakistan from its climate resilience fund, along with an additional USD 1 billion under the existing USD 7 billion economic stabilisation programme.
Allegations of Misuse and Threat to Regional Stability
SJM national co-convenor Ashwani Mahajan said the organisation “strongly expresses” its displeasure with the IMF's move. While refraining from directly calling the funding an endorsement of terrorism, Mahajan warned that past IMF loans to Pakistan had often failed to achieve their intended objectives.“These funds may be diverted to strengthen Pakistan’s military or indirectly aid terrorist activities, rather than contribute to meaningful economic reforms,” he said, adding that the IMF must consider the broader geopolitical implications of such financial support.
Urges India to Act, Calls for IMF Accountability
The SJM urged the Indian government to use all diplomatic avenues to ensure the newly approved funds are not misused. Mahajan called on the IMF to implement strict audit and monitoring mechanisms to track whether previously disbursed funds have been used for economic stabilisation.“We also call upon the government of India to engage all available diplomatic channels to ensure that the newly-approved IMF funds are not misused,” the statement read.
Reference to Pahalgam Terror Attack
Highlighting the recent Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 civilians were killed, Mahajan reiterated India's longstanding concerns over Pakistan’s alleged role in cross-border terrorism.He added, “Pakistan has nurtured terrorism as an instrument of its state policy, resulting in the loss of countless innocent lives and sustained instability in the region.”
Firm Support for Government’s Response
The SJM commended the Indian government’s firm response to terrorism, calling it a “bold step” that reflects the will of the Indian people. It also hailed the armed forces for their ongoing operations, stating that the organisation stands firmly with the nation in this critical hour.Mahajan also pointed to troubling developments, alleging that slain terrorists were being honoured with state funerals in Pakistan, wrapped in the national flag.
International Appeal for Action
The organisation appealed to the global community to hold Pakistan accountable for sponsoring cross-border terrorism and called for unity among Indian citizens to support national efforts against terrorism.“In this critical hour, the Swadeshi Jagran Manch stands firmly with the government, our armed forces and the people of India,” Mahajan said, urging citizens to remain vigilant and united.