Pak Army Chief Intensifies Anti-India Discourse, Revives Two-Nation Theory
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Synopsis
On April 26, Pakistan's COAS General Syed Asim Munir reiterated the two-nation theory, claiming Muslims and Hindus are distinct nations. His statements come amid rising tensions with India following a recent attack, with calls for a transparent investigation into the Kashmir incident.
Key Takeaways
- General Syed Asim Munir emphasizes the two-nation theory.
- Pakistan's existence is defined by struggle and sacrifice.
- Calls for a neutral investigation into Kashmir attacks.
- India responds to Munir's claims about Kashmir.
- Escalating tensions between Pakistan and India.
Islamabad/New Delhi April 26 (NationPress) The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan, General Syed Asim Munir, has once again emphasized the two-nation theory, asserting that the foundation of this theory is the distinct identity of Muslims and Hindus as separate nations.
"The two-nation theory is rooted in the core belief that Muslims and Hindus represent two different nations, not a single entity. Muslims are fundamentally different from Hindus in every realm of life – including religion, customs, traditions, thought processes, and aspirations," Munir stated during the passing out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul, Abbottabad.
The Army Chief asserted that the existence of Pakistan was born from an unmatched struggle and sacrifices, emphasizing that it is the responsibility of the armed forces to protect it.
"Our ancestors made tremendous sacrifices for the establishment of Pakistan. We are well-prepared to defend it," he remarked, referencing the escalating tensions with India following the recent Pahalgam attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 innocent civilians.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also addressed the gathering, indicating Islamabad's willingness to engage in any neutral, transparent, and credible investigation into the Kashmir terror incident, which has brought the two nations close to a full-scale conflict.
This is not the first instance of Munir making inflammatory remarks that are unbecoming of an officer.
The Army Chief delivered a highly provocative address just days before the tragic Pahalgam incident.
Speaking at a Convention for Overseas Pakistanis in Islamabad on April 16 – again in the presence of the Prime Minister – Munir urged attendees to remember their superior ideology and culture and referred to Kashmir as Islamabad's “jugular vein”.
"You should certainly share Pakistan's narrative with your children. Our forefathers believed that we are distinct from Hindus in every aspect of life. Our religions, customs, traditions, thoughts, and ambitions differ. This was the essence of the two-nation theory that was established," he explained.
India responded sharply to the Pak Army Chief, reiterating that it is Pakistan that continues to unjustly occupy the territory of Jammu and Kashmir and must relinquish it.
"How can anything foreign be their jugular vein? This is a Union Territory of India. The only connection it has with Pakistan is the need for that country to vacate illegally occupied territories," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) during a regular media briefing in New Delhi on April 17.
