The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly criticised Pakistan for commenting on the recent flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, asserting that Islamabad has “no moral standing” to speak on issues related to religious freedom or minority rights.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal delivered a sharp response during the ministry’s weekly briefing, stating that Pakistan—given its long history of discrimination, bigotry, and systemic persecution of minorities—was in no position to lecture India.
“We have seen the reported remarks and reject them with the contempt they deserve,” Jaiswal said. “As a country with a deeply stained record of bigotry, repression and systemic mistreatment of its minorities, Pakistan has no moral standing to lecture others.”
He added that Islamabad would be better served by examining its own human rights failures:
“Rather than delivering hypocritical homilies, Pakistan would do better to turn its gaze inwards and focus on its own abysmal human rights records.”
Pakistan’s Objection to Ram Mandir Ceremony
The MEA’s rebuttal came after Pakistan protested India’s recent Dhwajarohan ceremony at the Ram Temple, describing it as an attempt to “erase Muslim heritage.”
In a statement, Pakistan’s Foreign Office referred to the construction of the temple on the site of the former Babri Masjid, calling it evidence of increasing pressure on religious minorities in India.
PM Modi Hoists Flag at Ram Mandir
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ceremonially hoisted the saffron Dhwaj on the shikhar (spire) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya.
The Dhwajarohan Utsav marked the symbolic completion of the temple’s construction.
Calling the ceremony deeply emotional, PM Modi said participating in the event was “an extremely moving experience.” He added that the newly raised flag would serve as an inspiration to uphold truth and commitment:
“Pran jaaye par vachan na jaaye, jo kaha jaaye wohi kia jaaye.”
The Prime Minister was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat during the event.