BJP MPs Address Indian Community in London, Criticize Pakistan's Role in Terrorism
During a recent gathering at India House in London, several BJP MPs and Indian leaders spoke candidly about Pakistan's alleged support for terrorism and its impact on India, particularly focusing on Kashmir. The event aimed to engage the Indian diaspora and bring awareness about India’s stance against terrorism.
Pakistan's Dual Approach Criticized
BJP MP Gulam Ali Khatana sharply criticized Pakistan, stating that the country simultaneously seeks assistance while supporting terrorism. He remarked:
"Pakistan begs on one side and spreads terrorism on the other side... We know how to crush terrorism and do not need anyone's mediation."
Khatana highlighted the positive developments in Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370, including increased democratic participation, peace, growth in tourism, and enhanced women’s rights. However, he blamed Pakistan for attempting to destabilize the region through infiltration, terrorism, and drug trafficking despite India’s continued sharing of river water resources.
Highlighting Terrorism’s Root and Impact
Former Union Minister MJ Akbar described recent terror attacks as manifestations of "fascism and ethnic cleansing." He traced Pakistan’s history back to violent beginnings in 1946 and insisted that its commitment to violence appears entrenched. Akbar cited Mahatma Gandhi’s strong condemnation of terrorism in 1947, emphasizing that India’s armed forces remain determined never to retreat in the fight against terrorism.
India’s Responsible Global Stance
BJP MP Daggubati Purandeswari emphasized that India has consistently refrained from aggressive military postures toward other nations, instead focusing efforts on domestic development.
"India has never raised its ammunition against any country. Our wars have always been against poverty, unemployment and underdevelopment."
She cited India’s Operation Sindoor as a strong response to the terror attacks such as those in Pahalgam.
Unity Despite Attempts to Divide
BJP MP Samik Bhattacharya remarked on India’s commitment to unity, stating that Pakistan’s creation stemmed from conflict while India chose peace. He underlined that India never divided its people on religious lines, in stark contrast to extremist agendas that seek division.
Condemnation of Pakistan’s Policies from Across Political Spectrum
Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi recalled Pakistan’s history of harboring terrorists, citing evidence of Osama bin Laden being sheltered there. She condemned Pakistan’s army chief for inflammatory speeches promoting religious division and applauded the Indian Muslim community for standing united against terrorism and demanding a firm response.
High Commissioner Praises Indian Diaspora’s Role
India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, lauded the Indian community’s significant contributions to Indo-UK relations and British society. He underscored the community's pivotal role in both World Wars, nation-building, and maintaining a positive image of India internationally.
- Over 650 members of the Indian diaspora registered to participate in the event within two days, demonstrating strong community engagement.
- The diaspora’s enthusiasm was highlighted as a vital link in promoting India’s interests overseas.
Conclusion
The collective message from the BJP MPs and Indian leaders was clear: India stands firm against terrorism and supports peace and democratic progress, especially in Kashmir. The discourse reinforced India’s diplomatic resolve and highlighted the unity and proactive role of the Indian community in the UK.
