Islamabad, Pakistan’s Foreign Office has expressed deep concern over the rise of a Pakistan-bashing narrative in India, particularly in the context of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. This statement comes in response to the recent book by former Indian diplomat Ajay Bisaria, which has reignited discussions around the February 2019 events between the two countries.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, during her weekly news briefing in Islamabad, criticized the book’s portrayal of the Pulwama incident and subsequent military actions. She accused the Indian government of using the Pulwama episode for domestic political gains and suggested that the book seeks to perpetuate India’s fictitious narratives about the February 2019 developments.

Baloch pointed out that the Balakot incident represented a significant failure for the Indian military, highlighting that it resulted in the downing of Indian aircraft and the capture of an Indian pilot by Pakistan. She commended Pakistan’s response to the situation, emphasizing its responsible behavior and restraint in de-escalating tensions, while also demonstrating readiness to defend its security.

The Foreign Office Spokesperson expressed shock over the advocacy of coercion and use of force as diplomatic tools by a professional diplomat, citing it as indicative of a rising fascist mindset in India.