India on Tuesday hit back at Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif over his recent war threat, saying the remark was a desperate attempt by Islamabad to deflect attention from its human rights abuses. This came as New Delhi highlighted the brutal crackdown on ongoing anti-establishment protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
“Regarding the comments made by the Pakistani Defence Minister, we have seen reports on the matter. Such remarks are desperate attempts by Pakistan to cover up its own failings and divert attention away from its human rights abuses. We categorically reject these fabricated claims with the contempt they deserve,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a press briefing.
He added, “The ongoing developments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are a direct consequence of Pakistan’s decades-long policy of systematic economic exploitation, denial of fundamental rights, and administrative oppression in areas under its illegal and forcible occupation. The Pakistani state has responded with extreme police brutality, including the blocking of essential supplies and medicines, internet blackouts, and the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians.”
The official also called on the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for the clampdown on the protests in PoK. “As you know, several people have lost their lives as a result. We hope that the international community will hold Pakistan accountable for its actions, misdeeds, and human rights abuses,” Jaiswal stated.
– Ends
(With inputs from PTI)
Published On:
Jun 23, 2026 17:35 IST
