Source India Today
New Delhi: India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) delivered a scathing assessment of the political climate in Pakistan on Monday, stating sharply that “democracy and Pakistan don’t go together.” The remark came from MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the weekly media briefing, in response to questions about the state of democratic institutions in the neighboring country, particularly in the context of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and the ongoing protests by his supporters.
The pointed comment underscores India’s deep skepticism regarding the stability and integrity of Pakistan’s democratic processes, which have been frequently interrupted by military intervention and political turmoil.
Escalating Political Turmoil
Jaiswal’s statement comes amidst a period of escalating political tension in Pakistan. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023 on various charges, which his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), maintains are politically motivated.
Recent weeks have seen mounting concern and protests by PTI supporters demanding clarification on Khan’s health and demanding the restoration of his visitation rights.
“We keep a close eye on every development in Pakistan,” Jaiswal said. “But regarding democracy, you’re saying that ‘democracy in Pakistan is becoming weak and its strengths are being weakened.’ Democracy and Pakistan don’t go together. The less we talk, the better,” he added, effectively dismissing the possibility of a robust democratic culture taking root across the border.
Clash with Military Establishment
The comments also follow a dramatic public confrontation between Mr. Khan and the powerful Pakistan Army. Earlier reports indicate that the military spokesperson launched a direct and unusually harsh verbal attack on the jailed former prime minister. This escalating tension highlights the deep rift between Pakistan’s political and military establishments, a conflict that many analysts believe is central to the country’s enduring political instability.
The imposition of Section 144 (banning public gatherings) in cities like Islamabad and Rawalpindi, aimed at curbing protests demanding the former PM’s release and access to him, further illustrates the deteriorating state of political freedoms.
New Delhi’s sharp public criticism is viewed as a significant diplomatic commentary, reflecting a heightened level of concern over the continued political instability in a nuclear-armed neighbor.
