Islamabad: Pakistan has dismissed comments made by India concerning its Shia community, labeling them as diversionary tactics and an exercise in deflection. The statement from Islamabad comes in response to remarks from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, which Pakistan has criticized as being cynical and lacking genuine concern.

According to Radio Pakistan, Tahir Andrabi, the Spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responded to India’s remarks by highlighting issues within India itself, citing a record of discrimination against Muslims, Christians, and other marginalized groups. Andrabi pointed to documented incidents of violence and restrictions on religious practices, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

Andrabi specifically mentioned the increasing incidents of mob lynching in India targeting Muslims, describing these acts as deeply troubling. He noted that more than fifty-five Muslims were reportedly lynched in 2025, with at least nineteen further deaths occurring since January 2026. He also highlighted the unlawful targeting of mosques by extremist groups.

The spokesperson criticized the perceived impunity with which perpetrators of these crimes operate, suggesting that state support often enables their actions. Andrabi urged India to focus on addressing these well-documented issues within its own borders, emphasizing the need to protect its religious minorities in line with both constitutional and international commitments, rather than making unfounded statements about Pakistan.