India says Pakistan’s ‘terror support’ must be condemned after its officials praise Burhan Wani
Pakistan’s prime minister and chief of Army staff had made statements in support of the Hizbul commander who was killed last year.
Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Gopal Baglay on Sunday said that Pakistan’s “terror support and sponsorship” needed to be condemned.
Baglay’s tweet came a day after Pakistan had referred to Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani’s actions as a “sacrifice”. Wani was killed by Indian security forces on July 8, 2016. His death had led to massive protests in Kashmir, and several statements from Pakistan condemning India’s handling of violence in the region.
On Saturday, the first anniversary of Wani’s death, Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa had praised the Hizbul militant. Army spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor had tweeted on Bajwa’s behalf: “Sacrifices of #BurhanWani & generations against Indian atrocities are a testimony of their resolve.” Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had also praised Wani, Hindustan Times reported.
Wani is said to have been responsible for several attacks on Indian security personnel.
Pakistan recently defended Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin after the United Stated designated him a terrorist. Pakistan had called the US’ decision “completely unjustified”.