Guwahati: In a sharp rebuke delivered via his X (formerly Twitter) platform, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly criticized individuals within India who advocate for Pakistan or propagate positive portrayals of the neighboring nation.
Sarma characterized such conduct as “ignorance at best, hypocrisy at worst — and a betrayal of your own motherland,” effectively challenging the perceived idealism behind these pro-Pakistan stances.
Sarma underscored the stark contrast between the democratic freedoms enjoyed in India and the repressive environment prevailing in Pakistan. He asserted that in Pakistan, any discourse advocating for peace with India is treated as a criminal offense, highlighting the severe repercussions faced by those who dare to acknowledge India’s progress or suggest diplomatic engagement.
Elaborating on the suppression of dissenting voices in Pakistan, Sarma detailed the systematic persecution of individuals who express pro-India sentiments. He pointed out that “students, activists, journalists — anyone who utters a pro-India word is either jailed, tortured, or simply vanishes,” thus illustrating the extreme measures employed to silence any form of perceived sympathy towards India.
Sarma further drew attention to the utilization of cybercrime laws, such as PECA, by Pakistani authorities to detain citizens under ambiguous charges of “anti-state” activities or “glorifying the enemy.” He also noted the systematic removal of pro-dialogue content from digital platforms by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, effectively stifling any attempts at fostering peaceful relations.
The Chief Minister also addressed the targeted suppression of minority ethnic groups within Pakistan, including Baloch, Pashtun, and Sindhi activists, many of whom have vanished after challenging the military’s narratives or displaying any inclination towards openness with India. He emphasized that “In India, people are free to debate, dissent, and even defend Pakistan on national platforms. But across the border, even a poem or a balanced article can land you in jail.”
Sarma concluded his message by directly confronting those in India who, in his view, attempt to justify or minimize Pakistan’s actions. He stated, “Romanticizing Pakistan while enjoying Indian freedom is not noble — it is deeply misguided. You are defending a regime that would never allow the same liberty to its own citizens.” His remarks underscored his deep concern about the perceived disconnect between Indian free speech and Pakistan’s authoritarian intolerance, a disparity he believes is dangerously overlooked by certain segments of Indian society.\
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