- Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights of minorities.
- Hindu fascist groups have been seen against Indian Muslims.
- Islamabad calls for interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence.
Marking the anniversary of the demolition of the centuries-old Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, Pakistan has urged the international community to help safeguard Muslim religious heritage.
The statement was made by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi in response to a question during his weekly press briefing on Friday.
In 1992, a Hindu mob destroyed the mosque, sparking widespread riots across India in which around 2,000 people lost their lives, mostly Muslims.
Hindus claim the site as the birthplace of Lord Ram and consider it sacred, with historical significance predating the construction of the Babri Mosque by the Muslim Mughals in 1528.
In November, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised a saffron flag atop the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya in a ceremony marking the official completion of the temple more than a year after its dedication.
The site where the temple was built has been the subject of dispute between Hindus and Muslims for many years.
“Babri Masjid is etched in our collective memory,” Andrabi said, adding, “On December 6, 1992, this historic mosque in Ayodhya was destroyed in circumstances that continue to cause deep sadness and concern. The event remains troubling for all those who oppose religious intolerance and discrimination.”
Pakistan has maintained that the preservation of religious heritage and sacred sites is a shared responsibility of the international community. “It is essential that all acts damaging to Muslim religious symbols or historical heritage are treated with transparency, accountability and a strong commitment to justice,” the FO spokesperson said.
Pakistan stressed that the desecration of any place of worship constitutes a violation of the principles of religious equality and undermines the collective sense of security and mutual respect that all communities deserve.
He adds that the lingering sense of marginalization and emotional distress felt by Indian Muslims following this event remains of great concern.
“Encouraged by state patronage, Hindu fascist organizations are now demanding the complete ghettoization of Indian Muslims and other religious minorities.”
Andrabi said Pakistan values interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence.
“We call on the international community, including relevant UN institutions and influential global voices, to recognize the importance of safeguarding Muslim religious heritage and to help ensure that such painful incidents do not recur.”
Pakistan also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the religious rights and freedoms of minorities within its borders, in accordance with its legal obligations.
On the anniversary of the demolition of the Babri Mosque, FO expressed solidarity with Muslims who continue to feel the lingering sadness associated with this loss. “May this occasion serve not only as a remembrance of a painful event but also as a reaffirmation of the universal values of dignity, justice and respect for sacred heritage.”
Pakistan urged the Indian government to foster an environment of tolerance and inclusion, ensuring equal citizenship rights and mutual respect among all religious and cultural communities.
