India-backed groups promoting anti-people agenda: army chief

ISLAMABAD: Army Chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, has said that militant groups backed by India are pursuing an anti-people and anti-development agenda aimed at destabilising the country.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday, the army chief made the remarks while addressing participants of the “17th National Workshop Balochistan” at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.

Field Marshal Munir said that Balochistan is the pride of Pakistan, home to talented, resilient and patriotic people who are the province’s true strength. He emphasised that the province’s vast economic potential must be utilised for the welfare of its people.

Highlighting ongoing federal and provincial developments initiatives, he said that public welfare and inclusive growth were key to strengthening Balochistan’s socio-economic fabric.

The army chief also lauded the positive role of civil society, particularly the youth, in nation-building, stating that empowering young people was vital for sustainable development. He urged them to reject self-serving political narratives and contribute to the province’s long-term prosperity.

Referring to security threats, he said, “Groups backed by India, operating under the banners of ‘Fitna al-Hindustan’ and ‘Fitna al-Khawarij,’ are promoting an agenda hostile to the people and development of Pakistan.”

He assured that all necessary measures are being taken to eliminate terrorism and free Balochistan from such threats.

Field Marshal Munir reiterated that Pakistan seeks peace and stability in the region, but warned that any direct or indirect violation of its territorial integrity would be met with a decisive response to ensure the protection of its citizens.

Earlier, Field Marshal Asim Munir warned India that there is “no room for war in a nuclear environment.”

Addressing the passing-out parade at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul, the army chief said, “I advise and categorically warn India’s military leadership that there is no space for war in a nuclear environment.”

While commending Pakistan’s “clear victory” in the border conflict with India in May, he urged New Delhi to resolve core issues in accordance with international norms, saying Pakistan would neither be intimidated nor pressured by threats, and that any provocation would be met with a swift and decisive response.