A remark by the Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan, on alleged ‘persecution of minorities in India’ has become fodder for heated political debate in Karnataka with the BJP linking it to the demolitions in Kogilu.
In a statement from the Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan, the country has said, “The persecution of minorities in India is a matter of deep concern. Recent condemnable incidents of vandalism during Christmas as well as State-sponsored campaigns against Muslims, including the demolition of their homes and repeated lynchings, notably the case of Mohammed Akhlaq, in which the State worked to shield the accused from accountability, have deepened fear and alienation among Muslims….”.
Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson, the Ministry of External Affairs, India, responded, saying, “We reject the reported remarks from a country whose abysmal record on this front speaks for itself. Pakistan’s horrific and systemic victimisation of minorities of various faiths is a well established fact. No amount of finger pointing will obfuscate it,” he said.
Leader of Opposition in Karnataka Legislature Assembly R. Ashok said, “Pakistan’s statement was a reference to the Kogilu Layout incident. He alleged the Congress government was practising ‘minority appeasement’, a charge that Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar denied.
Asked about the statement by the MEA, Pakistan, Mr. Shivakumar said senior national leaders will respond to it.
Published – December 30, 2025 10:02 pm IST
