‘World Knows The True Epicentre of Terror’ India Rejects Pakistan’s Terror Claims Over Balochistan Train Hijack
India on Friday dismissed Pakistan’s accusations of sponsoring terrorism, stating the “world knows” the true epicentre of global terror, following Islamabad’s claims linked to the Jaffar Express hijack. The rebuttal came amid heightened tensions after the deadly attack in Balochistan that killed 21 passengers.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office hinted at India’s involvement in terrorism but stopped short of directly blaming it for Tuesday’s train hijacking. Instead, it pointed to Afghanistan, alleging evidence of calls traced to Afghan-based planners. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attack, which saw a 24-hour hostage crisis end with 33 militants killed.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal rejected Pakistan’s claims. “We strongly reject the baseless allegations made by Pakistan. The whole world knows where the epicentre of global terrorism lies,” he said. He urged Pakistan to focus on its internal security issues rather than “shifting blame” onto others.
Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan clarified, “In this particular incident, we have evidence of calls being traced to Afghanistan.” He maintained that India’s alleged role in sponsoring terrorism remains unchanged. Khan accused India of a “global assassination campaign” and criticized Indian media for “glorifying the BLA.”
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The Taliban swiftly refuted Pakistan’s accusations. “We categorically reject baseless allegations linking the attack to Afghanistan,” said Abdul Qahar Balkhi, spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He called on Pakistan to address its own security challenges instead of making “irresponsible remarks.”
Beyond the terror row, Pakistan reiterated its March 31 deadline for Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to leave. “Beyond that, they will be deemed illegal residents, and the law will take its course,” Khan stated. The policy reflects Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to regulate Afghan nationals amid security concerns.
The exchange underscores long-standing India-Pakistan tensions, now complicated by Afghanistan’s role. With investigations into the train hijack ongoing, further diplomatic responses or clarifications may emerge. Updates are expected as both nations navigate this latest flashpoint.
