ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Foreign Office has strongly dismissed India’s remarks regarding the treatment of Pakistan’s Shia community, calling them “cynical” and “an exercise in deflection masquerading as concern.” The comments followed accusations by India’s Ministry of External Affairs that Pakistan’s Field Marshal and COAS General Asim Munir had allegedly discriminated against the Shia community during a recent meeting with Shia clerics in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan’s FO spokesperson, Tahir Andrabi, rejected the claims, highlighting India’s own record of violence and discrimination against Muslims, including mob lynchings and attacks on mosques. He urged India to focus on protecting its own minorities rather than making baseless accusations against Pakistan.
The controversy comes amid rising tensions between the two nations, especially after India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticised Pakistan’s role in mediating US-Iran peace talks, calling the country a “broker.” The FO described Jaishankar’s remarks as undiplomatic and reflective of India’s growing frustration.
Pakistan maintains its stance on safeguarding all religious communities while rejecting external interference in its domestic affairs.
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