India using proxies for terrorism after May defeat: PM Shehbaz

In the wake of recent deadly attacks in Balochistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that India was carrying out terrorism across Pakistan through proxies after facing a humiliating defeat in Marka-e-Haq — the conflict with India from April 22 to May 10 last year.

“Durable peace in South Asia cannot be established until India abandons its aggressive, expansionist designs and nefarious conspiracies,” the premier said while addressing a special session for Kashmir Solidarity Day at the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) legislative assembly in Muzaffarabad.

His remarks came after recent attacks by India-backed Fitna al-Hindustan — Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) terrorists in various parts of Balochistan over the last weekend. On January 31, terrorists struck civilians in Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar, and Pasni.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that security forces successfully concluded Operation Raddul Fitna 1, eliminating at least 216 terrorists in coordinated operations. However, 36 innocent civilians, including women and children, along with 22 security and law enforcement personnel were martyred during these operations.

“Today, we have gathered to show solidarity with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters. Pakistan is present to express unwavering support for their cause,” PM Shehbaz said.

Highlighting the sacrifices of Kashmiri freedom fighters, he added, “The sacrifices of Kashmiris will not go in vain. I pay tribute to the martyrs of the freedom movement.” He noted that Kashmiris are ready to sacrifice their children but never their freedom. “Every day, Kashmiris hold up a mirror of truth to the world,” he added.

PM Shehbaz recalled the vision of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who had called Kashmir the “jugular vein of Pakistan.” He stressed that Kashmir has never been part of India and never will be. He also praised the decisive victory in Marka-e-Haq under Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, which humbled Indian arrogance.

“The victory revived the Kashmir cause globally and buried India’s narrative diplomatically,” he said, acknowledging Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s role in highlighting the issue worldwide. “Pakistan’s victory was, in essence, also a victory for Kashmiris. India has no option but to grant Kashmiris the right to self-determination,” he added.

While emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to peace, PM Shehbaz clarified, “Peace must be based on equality and justice. India will face an unforgettable response on every front it opens.” He highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability: “Pakistan will continue its role in practical conflict resolution.”

He also announced the establishment of educational institutions, including Danish School campuses and a university in Muzaffarabad, to improve education, health, and infrastructure in AJK. “Irrespective of the government in Azad Kashmir, I will extend full cooperation, and our support will remain unwavering,” he said.

The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance on Palestine and Kashmir, adding, “Our diplomatic efforts have successfully countered India’s false narrative, and unity is essential to neutralise the enemy’s designs.” He noted that Pakistan has also taken principled steps to ensure peace in Gaza.