**Pakistan’s Targeted Attack on Sikh Community Condemned by India**
In a recent press conference, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri condemned Pakistan for its use of religion to indoctrinate individuals, highlighting a targeted attack on the Sikh community in Jammu and Kashmir. On Wednesday, Pakistan struck a Gurudwara and several homes belonging to Sikhs in Poonch, resulting in the tragic deaths of 16 civilians and numerous injuries.
Misri stated, “Yesterday, Pakistan launched a targeted attack on the Sikh community of J&K, targeting a gurdwara in Poonch and assaulting community members. Three individuals were killed in these attacks, contributing to a total of 16 civilian fatalities in Poonch, with many others injured.”
This assault is believed to be a retaliatory measure following India’s Operation Sindoor, which aimed at dismantling terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. Misri expressed concern over the state funerals held in Pakistan for those killed in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, noting, “It is peculiar that civilians are being honored with state funerals, complete with coffins draped in the national flag. The individuals eliminated were terrorists, and while this may be customary in Pakistan, it does not resonate with us.”
The Foreign Secretary emphasized that Pakistan has escalated tensions, while India’s Operation Sindoor was a measured response focused solely on terrorist infrastructure. He categorically dismissed Pakistan’s claims that the operation targeted civilian infrastructure, particularly the Neelum-Jhelum dam project, labeling these assertions as “untrue” and “fabricated.”
In conclusion, the recent events underscore the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly regarding the safety and security of minority communities in the region. As the situation develops, it remains crucial for the international community to monitor these incidents closely.
**FAQ**
**What was the recent attack on the Sikh community in Poonch?**
The attack involved a targeted strike by Pakistan on a Gurudwara and Sikh homes in Poonch, resulting in 16 civilian deaths and multiple injuries.