BJP slams ex‑Pak envoy for ‘Pakistan needs terrorism’ remark

March 22, 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday strongly criticised remarks made by former Pakistani diplomat Abdul Basit, asserting that his statements reflect Pakistan’s supposed reliance on terrorism. Basit, who served as Pakistan’s High Commissioner to India from 2014 to 2017, had said in an interview that if Pakistan comes under attack from the United States, its response might involve striking Indian cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai.

BJP national spokesperson Tuhin Sinha denounced Basit’s comments, saying they demonstrate that Pakistan “cannot survive without terrorism” and alleged that such rhetoric exposes Islamabad’s mindset. The BJP described the remarks as irresponsible and reflective of a broader pattern of hostility toward India.

Basit’s Contextual Statement

In the interview with a Pakistani channel, Abdul Basit discussed hypothetical scenarios in which Pakistan might face an attack from the United States. He claimed that if Pakistan were to be targeted even in circumstances where direct retaliation against the U.S. might not be feasible Pakistan would resort to striking large Indian cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. Basit framed his comments as a theoretical worst‑case response measure.

His remarks quickly drew criticism, particularly because of their aggressive implications toward India, even though they were presented in a hypothetical geopolitical context.

BJP’s Denunciation of Terrorism Claims

Reacting to Basit’s statements, Tuhin Sinha accused Pakistan of being a “terrorist state” and said that such threats from a former envoy reinforce India’s concerns over Pakistan‑sponsored terrorism. Sinha also referenced previous controversial statements by Pakistani military leaders, including claims that Pakistan might attack foreign targets like oil refineries during conflict, arguing that such comments show an ingrained reliance on violence.

“Basit’s threat that Mumbai and Delhi will be blown up with bombs from Pakistan shows that even today, Pakistan is rattled by strikes during Operation Sindoor,” Sinha said, referencing Indian military actions that Pakistan fears could influence its strategic decisions. He added, “It shows terrorism is ingrained in their nature. Pakistan can’t survive without terrorism.”

Broader Accusations from BJP

Sinha pointed to other actions attributed to Pakistan that have been condemned by India, including alleged airstrikes in conflict zones during significant periods such as Ramzan, which he said resulted in civilian casualties. He argued these incidents further undermine Pakistan’s claims of promoting peace.

The BJP spokesperson also criticised previous government responses, claiming that the earlier UPA regime was silent on Pakistan‑linked terrorism, whereas the current government has taken tougher stances and responses to perceived threats against India.

Geopolitical Sensitivities and Reactions

The exchange underscores ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, where statements by political figures and former diplomats can quickly become points of contention. Basit’s comments, even if hypothetical, touched on longstanding security concerns and mutual distrust that define Indo‑Pak relations.

Analysts note that cross‑border tensions often elevate rhetoric on both sides, especially when former officials make public statements that touch on sensitive strategic issues. Such remarks are likely to be interpreted through the lens of historical grievances and current geopolitical fault lines.

India’s Stance on Terrorism

India has consistently highlighted concerns about cross‑border terrorism emanating from Pakistan, and government officials, including foreign policy leaders, have labelled Pakistan as a focal point of terrorism. For example, India’s external affairs leadership has previously described Pakistan as a centre of terrorism in international forums.

Against this backdrop, Basit’s controversial remarks have provided political opponents with further ammunition to underscore India’s official narrative on Pakistan’s alleged role in fostering extremist activities.