The Kashmir Dialogues
New Delhi, May 08:
In a strong statement following the recent escalation along the border, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday condemned Pakistan for what he called a “targeted attack” on the Sikh community in Jammu and Kashmir, specifically referencing the shelling in Poonch that resulted in multiple civilian casualties.
“Yesterday, Pakistan launched a targeted attack on the Sikh community of J&K—hitting a gurdwara in Poonch and targeting members of the Sikh community. Three individuals were killed in the attacks,” said Misri, adding that a total of 16 civilians have died and several others remain injured.
Highlighting the disturbing trend, Misri further pointed out the unusual nature of the funerals conducted for the deceased. “It’s odd that funerals of civilians are being carried out with coffins wrapped in their national flag and state honours being awarded,” he said, suggesting clear state involvement and militarisation of the narrative around civilian deaths.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has termed the series of developments as a deliberate provocation under the garb of “Operation Sindoor,” which India believes is Pakistan’s attempt to internationalise the Kashmir issue while simultaneously targeting minority communities.
India has called on the international community to take cognizance of these acts, asserting that they reflect a deeply troubling pattern of cross-border terrorism and state-sponsored violence.
