India Slams Vandalism of Historic Hindu Temple in Pakistan's Narowal
India condemns reported destruction of a century-old Hindu temple in Narowal, Pakistan, demanding investigation and restoration.
India has strongly condemned the reported destruction of a historic Hindu temple in Pakistan's Narowal region, calling on Islamabad to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on Wednesday expressing deep concern over the damage to the century-old place of worship in village Siraj, Narowal. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the act as "reprehensible vandalism" and a violation of minority rights.
"We have noted with deep concern the disturbing reports of the destruction of a historic Hindu temple in village Siraj, Narowal, Pakistan. We unequivocally condemn this reprehensible act of vandalism against a century-old minority place of worship," Jaiswal said.
He added that the apparent failure of local authorities to protect the temple was "alarming" and highlighted the continuing vulnerability of minority communities in Pakistan. The incident, he said, serves as a stark reminder of the egregious violations of religious freedoms and cultural heritage in the country.
India called on the Pakistani government to conduct a prompt and transparent investigation and to ensure full accountability for those involved. The MEA also demanded immediate remedial measures to restore the desecrated temple.
"The Government of Pakistan must take immediate remedial measures to restore the desecrated temple and fulfil its primary obligation to guarantee the safety, security and well-being of all its minority citizens and their cultural heritage," Jaiswal added.