Defense Minister Rajnath Singh warned Friday that India's continued adherence to its "no first use" policy for nuclear weapons will depend on the situation, a comment that is likely to fuel tensions with Pakistan over their territorial dispute.
In a Twitter post, the defense minister cited India's past commitment to the doctrine, but said that "what happens in future depends on the circumstances."
Shortly after the comment, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told a news conference that "the timing and substance of the Indian defense minister statement is highly unfortunate and reflects India's irresponsible attitude and belligerence."