By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has issued a strong statement expressing deep concern over what it describes as an alarming surge in Islamophobic incidents across India, calling on New Delhi to protect the rights and safety of its Muslim citizens.

In a press release issued on Saturday, the spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to media queries regarding the reported increase in anti-Muslim actions and rhetoric in India.

“Pakistan expresses grave concern over the alarming rise in Islamophobic incidents across India,” the statement read. “Pakistan calls upon the Government of India to uphold the rights and safety of all its citizens, regardless of faith.”

The spokesperson condemned what was described as a pattern of hate speech, discriminatory measures, and state complicity in anti-Muslim actions, warning that such developments have drawn serious concern from the international community.

“At a time when restraint and reconciliation are most needed, the deliberate incitement of religious hatred for political or ideological purposes violates international human rights obligations and vitiates the prospects for communal harmony, and regional stability,” the statement added.

While the statement did not reference specific incidents, it follows a series of reports from human rights groups and international observers documenting attacks on Muslim communities, inflammatory rhetoric by political leaders, and contentious legal measures affecting religious freedoms in India.

India has yet to respond to the latest remarks from Islamabad. 

The issue of minority rights in India, particularly concerning its 200-million-strong Muslim population, remains a contentious and politically sensitive topic, both domestically and in regional diplomacy.

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry’s comments come at a time of heightened diplomatic strain between the two South Asian neighbors, who have long-standing disputes over Kashmir and other regional security issues. Analysts say the rhetoric could further complicate already fragile ties.

International Reactions:

• Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have repeatedly urged Indian authorities to investigate and prevent incidents of religious violence.

• The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has also raised concerns over the treatment of Muslims in India in previous statements.

The situation continues to be closely monitored by regional observers and international rights bodies amid calls for greater protection of religious minorities and efforts to promote communal harmony in the region.