ISLAMABAD: Pakistan rebuked India’s allegation regarding minorities’ rights in Pakistan, saying that New Delhi itself was a “serial violator” of those very rights.
The remarks came in response to the allegation made by India’s External Affairs Minister during a Lok Sabha session. S Jaishankar spoke about “crimes and atrocities against minorities” in Pakistan, Indian media reported.
Addressing the press briefing in Islamabad today, the Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, said, “India is in no position to champion minority rights, as it remains a serial violator of those very rights.”
The systematic promotion of hatred, discrimination, and violence against minorities in India was well-documented, the spokesperson said.
Citing various incidents, Shafqat Ali Khan said India’s record is marred by egregious and systemic violations of minority rights, particularly those of Muslims.
Khan highlighted that state institutions in Pakistan were actively working to safeguard minorities as a matter of policy in Pakistan.
In stark contrast, the FO statement added that incidents targeting minorities in India frequently occur with the tacit approval or even complicity of elements within the ruling dispensation.
The spokesperson said the Indian government would do well to address its failures rather than feigning concern for minorities elsewhere, Khan added.
He said India must take concrete steps to ensure the safety, protection, and well-being of minorities, including Muslims, and safeguard their places of worship, cultural heritage, and fundamental rights.
