This is the third such incident wherein the statue has been vandalised, since it was unveiled in 2019.”said MEA Spokesperson…reports Asian Lite News
India on Tuesday slammed Pakistan following the vandalization of a statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore, saying Islamabad has completely failed in its duty to prevent such attacks which are creating a ”climate of fear” among the minority communities.
Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, “We have seen disturbing reports in the media about the vandalization of the statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore today. This is the third such incident wherein the statue has been vandalised, since it was unveiled in 2019.”
Responding to media queries regarding the vandalization of the statue, Bagchi said, ”Such attacks on the cultural heritage of minority communities in Pakistan highlight the growing intolerance and lack of respect for minority communities in Pakistani society.”
The MEA spokesperson also referred to an attack on a place of worship of a minority community a few days ago in Rahim Yar Khan in Pakistan.
“Incidents of violence against minority communities, including attacks on their places of worship, their cultural heritage, as well as their private property, are increasing at an alarming rate. It was only twelve days ago that a mob attacked and desecrated a Hindu temple in Rahim Yar Khan in Pakistan,” he said.
Calling upon the Pakistani government to ensure the safety, security and well-being of the minorities, Bagchi said, “The Pakistani state has completely failed in its duty to prevent such attacks. This is creating a climate of fear for the minority communities to practice their faith. We call upon the Government of Pakistan to ensure the safety, security and well-being of its minority communities.” (India News Network)
