New Delhi: India has strongly rejected remarks made by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister at the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum, accusing Islamabad of using international platforms to spread misinformation and divert attention from its record on cross border terrorism.
Responding to the comments, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described Pakistan’s statements as baseless and said the country frequently attempts to misuse global forums to advance false narratives while ignoring its own role in supporting terrorism.
Reiterating India’s position on Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Jaiswal said both regions have always been an integral part of India and will continue to remain so. He asserted that Pakistan has no basis to comment on matters concerning these Union Territories.
The Ministry also reaffirmed India’s stand on the Indus Waters Treaty, stating that there has been no change in the government’s position. According to the MEA, the treaty remains in abeyance because of Pakistan’s continued support for cross border terrorism, including its alleged involvement in the Pahalgam terror attack.
India maintained that the treaty would remain suspended until Pakistan takes credible, permanent and verifiable steps to end its support for terrorism originating from its territory.
Jaiswal also criticised Pakistan for using what he described as state sponsored propaganda framed in religious terminology, referring to the phrase “Fitna al Hindustan” as an example. He said such rhetoric is intended to shift attention away from Pakistan’s internal challenges and its reputation as a hub for terrorist organisations.
The spokesperson urged Pakistan to focus on dismantling terror infrastructure operating within its own territory instead of making allegations against neighbouring countries or using international forums to promote what India called misleading narratives.
The latest response is in line with India’s consistent position at international forums, where it has repeatedly rejected Pakistan’s comments on Jammu and Kashmir while emphasising that cross border terrorism remains the principal obstacle to improving bilateral relations.
