ISLAMABAD: On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan on Wednesday criticised India for failing to provide what it termed “credible evidence” to support its allegations against Islamabad.
In a televised statement, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said New Delhi had also avoided calls for an independent and impartial investigation into the incident, which Pakistan has repeatedly described as a possible “false flag operation.”
The attack, which took place in Pahalgam in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists and triggered a major escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Pakistan rejected India’s accusations of involvement and instead called for a neutral probe.
Tensions escalated into open conflict in May last year, following what Islamabad described as unprovoked Indian strikes inside its territory. Pakistan responded militarily, leading to a brief war that ended on May 10 with a ceasefire reportedly brokered by the United States.
Reflecting on the episode, Tarar said India has yet to provide satisfactory answers regarding the attack, accusing it of attempting to portray internal issues as external threats while downplaying internationally recognised disputes such as Kashmir.
He claimed that India’s handling of the incident aligns with patterns of past “false flag” operations and criticised what he described as inconsistencies, including the rapid registration of a police case shortly after the attack.
The minister also pointed to questions raised by segments of international media, Indian civil society, and analysts, arguing that India has failed to build a convincing case globally.
Tarar further accused Indian media of amplifying tensions through what he called exaggerated and unverified reporting, adding that such narratives have damaged its credibility.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance, he said the country remains committed to combating terrorism and safeguarding its sovereignty. He warned that any future escalation would be met with a “swift and decisive response.”
The minister also reiterated Pakistan’s position that it seeks peace in the region while maintaining readiness to defend itself, adding that both civil and military leadership remain aligned on national security priorities.