New Delhi: India on Sunday rejected Pakistan’s claims that it was involved in the recent coordinated militant attacks in Balochistan, calling the accusations an attempt to divert attention from Pakistan’s “own internal failings.”
In a statement issued in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India “categorically rejects the baseless allegations made by Pakistan,” describing them as part of Islamabad’s “usual tactics to deflect attention.”
“Instead of parroting frivolous claims each time there is a violent incident, it would do better to focus on addressing long-standing demands of its people in the region,” Jaiswal added, noting that Pakistan’s “record of suppression, brutality and violation of human rights is well known.”
The remarks came after a series of coordinated attacks across multiple districts of Balochistan, including Quetta, Gwadar, Mastung and Noshki. The assaults began early Saturday, leaving 31 civilians, including five women, and 17 security personnel dead. The banned separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility, prompting authorities to impose extended security restrictions across the province.
In response, Pakistani security forces launched a sweeping manhunt, killing at least 145 suspected fighters during retaliatory operations. According to Pakistan’s military, 92 fighters were killed on Saturday and 41 on Friday. Public gatherings and demonstrations were banned, traffic movement was restricted, and additional security forces were deployed. Measures also prohibited the use of face coverings that conceal identities in public, according to the Dawn newspaper.
On Saturday, Pakistan’s military alleged that the attacks were carried out by “Indian-sponsored militants.” Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also blamed India at a press conference, claiming, “The most important thing that is necessary for the world to know now is that these terrorists are not normal terrorists. India is behind those attacks.” He further accused India of planning the operation and providing financial support to the militants.