Jakarta: John Brittas, a Member of Parliament from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and part of an all-party delegation visiting Indonesia, criticized Pakistan for its status as a theocratic state during an address to the Indian diaspora in Jakarta.
Brittas highlighted that Pakistan was established as a nation based on religious identity, which he said has fostered animosity. In contrast, he emphasized that India is a secular democracy embracing pluralism and diversity, demonstrated by its nearly 200 million-strong Muslim community—the second largest worldwide after Indonesia.
"Pakistan is a theocratic state. They chose to be a nation in the name of a religion and are triggered by hate. India decided on its path. Two hundred million Muslims live in India, reflecting its true character," Brittas stated.
He further elaborated that the delegation's composition, including members from five political parties—three of which oppose the current ruling party—reflects the democratic vibrancy and inclusive culture unique to India. This unity stands in stark contrast to Pakistan, where state-sponsored terrorism poses a graver threat than isolated insurgencies or criminally motivated terrorism.
Brittas recalled remarks made by Pakistan's defense minister, who admitted to supporting terrorist groups for several decades, indicating Pakistan’s continued endorsement of terrorism despite India's commitment to peace and cooperation, including concessions under the Indus Waters Treaty that allocated 80% of water resources to Pakistan.
"India desires peace, but not at the expense of our citizens’ lives," he asserted, underscoring the importance of vigilance and military preparedness against security threats.
The delegation, led by JD-U MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, also includes representatives from various political parties: Aparajita Sarangi (BJP), Abhishek Banerjee (Trinamool Congress), Brij Lal (BJP), John Brittas (CPI-M), Pradan Baruah (BJP), Hemang Joshi (BJP), Salman Khurshid, and Mohan Kumar. Their visit spans Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, and Singapore.
