Pakistan’s Foreign Office has underscored that India’s recent reaction to the terrorist attacks in Balochistan serves as a clear validation of Pakistan’s persistent claims about external interference aimed at destabilizing the region. The statement came on Thursday, emphasizing that India’s stance effectively confirms Islamabad’s long-held position regarding cross-border support for militant activities within Pakistan’s southwestern province.
These remarks follow a series of violent incidents last month when the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group, orchestrated multiple coordinated attacks across various districts in Balochistan. The assaults resulted in the tragic loss of 22 security personnel and 36 innocent civilians, highlighting the severe security challenges faced by the province. The scale and coordination of these attacks raised serious concerns about the involvement of foreign elements in fueling unrest.
On January 31, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) released a detailed statement revealing that the perpetrators belonged to an India-backed terrorist faction known as Fitna al-Hindustan (FAH). The group targeted civilians in multiple locations including Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar, and Pasni. In response, Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies swiftly launched comprehensive clearance operations throughout the province. These efforts led to the elimination of 92 terrorists linked to the India-sponsored group, including three suicide bombers, thereby disrupting further planned attacks.
During the weekly media briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to promoting peace, dialogue, and diplomatic engagement in the region. He stressed that while Pakistan remains committed to constructive regional cooperation, it will continue to protect its national interests and uphold its principled positions on international disputes. Andrabi also drew attention to a significant historical reference, noting that this month marks the 19th anniversary of the Samjhauta Express bombing, a tragic incident in which over 70 lives were lost.
He recalled that Swami Aseemanand, one of the accused in the Samjhauta Express case, had publicly admitted his involvement in the attack. Additionally, Indian Colonel Shrikant Purohit had also confessed to his role in the bombing. Despite these admissions, Andrabi pointed out that all four accused individuals remain free and have not been brought to justice. This failure, he argued, reflects India’s reluctance to hold those responsible accountable, further undermining its credibility on issues of terrorism and cross-border violence.
In conclusion, the Foreign Office spokesperson strongly dismissed the recent statement issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, labeling it as unfounded and lacking any credible basis. The remarks by Pakistan’s diplomatic representative highlight the ongoing tensions between the two countries and underscore Islamabad’s narrative of India’s involvement in fomenting unrest within Pakistan’s borders, particularly in the sensitive province of Balochistan.
