ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir, sharply criticized India’s Hindutva ideology on Friday. He stated that the ideology has led to increased attacks on minorities, particularly in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
During his address at the Margalla Dialogue 2024, organized by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), General Munir highlighted that the consequences of Hindutva are felt globally. He emphasized that minorities, especially those from the Sikh and Muslim communities, face growing threats due to India’s extremist policies.
Hindutva and Its Impact on Minorities
General Munir described Hindutva as a force of “cruelty and brutality,” particularly in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He argued that the Indian government’s actions in Kashmir are part of a broader campaign fueled by this extremist ideology.
He pointed to India’s alleged involvement in extrajudicial killings abroad. Both Canada and the United States have accused Indian agents of being involved in targeted killings, including the 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh advocate for Khalistan.
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) also raised concerns about India’s treatment of its religious minorities. Their 2024 report details a rise in violence, arbitrary arrests, and the destruction of religious sites. The report also condemned the spread of misinformation and hate speech, which have contributed to this climate of fear and violence.
India’s Role in Extrajudicial Killings
General Munir referred to the killing of two Pakistani citizens on Pakistani soil, allegedly orchestrated by Indian agents. According to Pakistan’s former foreign secretary, Syrus Qazi, the evidence against India points to a “sophisticated and sinister” network of extrajudicial killings. This network extends far beyond South Asia, implicating Indian agents in global operations.
Kashmir Issue: A Solution Is Inevitable
The COAS reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir dispute, calling for a resolution in line with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He declared that a peaceful solution to the Kashmir issue is inevitable, and India must address it in accordance with international law.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Peace and Stability
General Munir also spoke on Pakistan’s role in maintaining global peace. He underscored Pakistan’s active participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions, with over 235,000 Pakistanis having served in these operations. He proudly stated that 181 Pakistanis have sacrificed their lives in these missions, contributing to global stability and peace.
In his speech, the army chief touched on the rise of violent non-state actors and state-sponsored terrorism. He warned that the rapid spread of misinformation is destabilizing political and social structures worldwide. He stressed the need for stronger laws to curb the unchecked flow of false information.
Global Challenges and Pakistan’s Role
General Munir noted that misinformation, terrorism, and the global health crisis are some of the key challenges facing the world today. He emphasized that terrorism is a common enemy for all nations. Pakistan, he said, remains committed to fighting terrorism and has implemented a comprehensive border management strategy to secure its western borders.
Referring to the growing influence of groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), General Munir urged the interim Afghan government not to allow its territory to be used for terrorist activities. He warned that Afghanistan has become a haven for various international terrorist groups, calling it “Fitna al-Khawarij” — a reference to the early Islamic sect that espoused violent extremism.
Pakistan’s Continued Commitment to Peace
General Munir concluded by reiterating Pakistan’s dedication to regional peace and global stability. He stressed that Pakistan’s role in peacekeeping, counterterrorism, and combating misinformation reflects the nation’s commitment to promoting a safer, more harmonious world.
Pakistan remains resolute in its fight against terrorism and extremism. General Munir’s remarks at the Margalla Dialogue 2024 reflect the country’s ongoing efforts to ensure peace and stability, both at home and in the wider international community.
