‘Stop sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan’: FO retorts to Indian defence minister’s statement

• FO says the statements show BJP's extremist ideology and obsession with Pakistan.
• Ministry suggests BJP to contest elections on basis of own performance, rather than dragging Pakistan for electoral gains.

Condemning Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s provocative statements, Pakistan said on Tuesday that these statements provide another insight into Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) extremist ideology, hegemonic ambitions and obsession with Pakistan.

In a statement, the Foreign Office (FO) has said that it is highly irresponsible of the minister to be threatening the splitting of a sovereign country. "We are sure that the world community would take cognizance. For his part, Singh should have no doubt that the security forces and people of Pakistan remain ready to resolutely defend the country against any evil design," statement added.

The FO also rejected the minister's 'gratuitous comments on help in counter-terrorism' and said that India should cease its sponsorship of terrorism against Pakistan. "India would help itself by ceasing forthwith the state-terrorism it has been perpetrating for decades against the Kashmiri people in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir," the statement read.

The FO also stressed that BJP whips up anti-Pakistan sentiment to rally support for its candidates whenever there are elections. "As we have stressed before, the BJP should contest elections on the basis of its own performance, rather than dragging Pakistan into the domestic political foray for electoral gains," FO added.

The statement by the FO referred to the Indian defense minister's recent statements during a rally in Haryana. The Indian defense minister had 'suggested' Prime Minister Imran Khan to take India's assistance to combat terror on its soil. "I would like to make a suggestion to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. If you are serious enough to fight against terror, we are ready to assist you. If you want our Army, then we will send them there for your help," Rajnath said.