ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed grave concern over idea of Akhand Bharat (Greater India), which is being increasingly peddled by ruling Indian dispensation. Speaking at weekly press briefing here, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch regretted installation of mural at new Parliament building in New Delhi. Mural depicts so-called ‘ancient India’, including areas that now constitute parts of Pakistan and other countries. “We are appalled by statements made by some BJP politicians, including union minister, linking mural with ‘Akhand Bharat’, she said. FO spokesperson said gratuitous assertion of Akhand Bharat was manifestation of revisionist and expansionist mindset that seeks to subjugate identity and culture of not only India’s neighbouring countries but also its own religious minorities.

“It is matter of grave concern that idea of Akhand Bharat is being increasingly peddled by individuals belonging to ruling dispensation in India. Indian politicians are well advised not to indulge in rhetoric against other countries merely to further their divisive and parochial political agenda,” Baloch said, adding that instead of nurturing hegemonic and expansionist ambitions, India should resolve disputes with its neighbours and work with them to build peaceful and prosperous South Asia. She expressed alarm over India’s latest move seeking death penalty for prominent Kashmiri leader Yasin Malik. Last year, Mr Malik was awarded life sentence in contrived case, marked by fabricated charges and denial of fair trial. He is being held in inhumane conditions in notorious Tihar Jail despite his deteriorating health. Mr Malik is being denied access to family members, lawyers and quality health treatment.

“India’s latest move is another instance of political vendetta aimed at silencing Kashmiri leadership and intimidating Kashmiri people. It is manifestation of India’s unending and pervasive oppression in IIOJK where political leaders and human rights defenders are routinely incarcerated on trumped up and baseless charges,” she said. FO spokesperson urged Indian authorities to end this farce trial of Mr Malik.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 03 2023

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