India Condemns Pakistan Army Chief’s Endorsement of ‘Two-Nation’ Theory

Top Indian government sources told CNN-News18 that Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir’s endorsement of the two-nation theory and remarks suggesting that Pakistanis are "different" from Hindus reflect his "deep frustration" and a "desperate attempt to assert himself as a general in a failing state."

Government sources said General Munir aims to rally a united Muslim bloc against India, calling upon radical elements, extremists, and terrorists to launch attacks. (Video Screengrab)

“Munir’s recent anti-Hindu statements should be viewed within the context of domestic politics, regional tensions, and the timing of India’s Waqf Act amendments. He aims to rally a united Muslim bloc against India, calling upon radical elements, extremists, and terrorists to launch attacks. This call to action is intended to motivate Pakistan’s homegrown terror groups like Lashkar and Jaish to target India and Hindu forces," the sources said.

They added: “Munir’s narrative hinges on highlighting Hindu-Muslim civilisational differences and positioning Pakistan as a leader in this divide. By portraying India as a persecutor of Muslims, he seeks to undermine India’s global standing. This strategy also serves to divert attention from internal crises, such as the insurgency in Balochistan, by framing India as a significant threat."

The sources also mentioned that by accusing India of "illegally occupying Kashmir," Munir aligns Pakistan’s military stance with global Muslim solidarity, reflecting his support for Palestinians in Gaza. “This comes at a time when Pakistan’s governance failures are becoming increasingly public. Munir is trying to position himself as a global defender of Muslim causes."

Government sources stated that Munir’s remarks appear to be strategically timed to coincide with the amendment of India’s Waqf Act and the ongoing protests, aiming to " amplify communal narratives that paint India as hostile to Muslims." “Leveraging the Waqf tensions, Munir aims to undermine India’s secular image while encouraging Islamist groups in India and Bangladesh. Domestically, he seeks to consolidate his position within an environment where an army chief’s tenure is coterminous with the elected government. His rhetoric also strengthens the military’s role by appealing to radical voters and religious groups."

“Moreover, Munir’s statements are part of a broader geopolitical strategy, reaching out to Bangladesh by resuming rice imports and initiating high-level visits."

What did Munir say?

While speaking at the Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad on Wednesday, Munir emphasized the importance of educating the younger generation about Pakistan’s origins. He urged every Pakistani to share the story of the nation’s birth with their children, ensuring they understand how their forefathers believed Pakistan to be distinct from Hindus in every aspect of life.

The army chief also pledged to intensify efforts against terrorists in Balochistan, calling it "the destiny of Pakistan." He further declared that "not even 10 generations of terrorists can harm Balochistan and Pakistan."

(This Article was originally published by News18)