FO Slams Indian Defence Minister’s ‘Provocative, Delusional’ Remarks on Sindh
Pakistan strongly criticised Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s recent remarks implying that Sindh could one day “return to India”, calling the statement provocative, revisionist, and dangerous for regional stability. The comments, widely circulated by Indian media, sparked immediate concern in Islamabad, where officials noted that such rhetoric reflects an expansionist worldview rooted in Hindutva ideology.
What Rajnath Singh Said
During an event in India, Rajnath Singh claimed that Sindh, despite not being part of India today, remained “civilisationally” linked and could potentially “return” in the future. He also alleged that Sindhi Hindus of his generation never accepted the province’s accession to Pakistan. These remarks drew significant backlash, as they hinted at a disregard for internationally recognised borders and Pakistan’s sovereignty.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) condemned the statements and described them as “delusional, revisionist and irresponsible.” Officials warned that such claims violate established international legal principles and undermine decades of diplomatic norms.
Pakistan’s Response and Concerns
In its statement, the FO stated that Singh’s remarks reflected an “expansionist Hindutva mindset” that threatens peace and stability in South Asia. The FO urged Indian leaders to stop issuing provocative commentary and instead focus on ensuring the secur-ity and rights of India’s own citizens. It highlighted growing concerns about the treatment of minorities inside India, where faith-based discrimination and violence remain pressing human rights issues.
The FO also called attention to unrest in India’s northeast, noting long-standing grievances, identity-based persecution, and recurring cycles of state-enabled violence affecting communities across the region. Officials stressed that addressing internal injustices should be a priority rather than promoting divisive narratives that inflame regional tensions.
Call for Regional Responsibility
Reaffirming Pakistan’s longstanding position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the FO urged New Delhi to take credible steps toward resolving the issue in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan emphasised that durable regional peace requires responsible leadership, adherence to international law, and a sincere commitment to diplomacy.
Despite the heightened tensions, the FO reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful dispute resolution. However, it also made clear that Pakistan would continue safeguarding its secur-ity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity against any rhetoric or actions that challenge recognised borders.
