India Reacts Strongly to Pakistan’s Train Hijack Allegations, Tensions Escalate

International Desk

India has dismissed Pakistan’s recent claims implicating Indian intelligence in the hijacking of a passenger train by Baloch separatists, labeling the accusations as “baseless and misleading.” The incident has heightened diplomatic tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs termed the allegations an attempt to “mask Pakistan’s own security failures.”

On Tuesday, Pakistani officials alleged that India’s intelligence agency RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) was involved in the March 15 hijacking near Hyderabad in Sindh province. The attack, carried out by Baloch separatists, resulted in three fatalities and 12 injuries. The hijackers temporarily seized control of the train before security forces regained command. Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi claimed there was “credible evidence” of Indian involvement but provided no specific details.

India responded sharply, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stating, “This is yet another diversionary tactic by Pakistan to cover up its security lapses.” He also accused Pakistan of using “terrorism as a state instrument” and blamed Islamabad for cross-border attacks.

“The world knows where the epicenter of terrorism lies,” Jaiswal remarked, alluding to Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorist groups.

Relations between India and Pakistan have been strained since India revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019. Cross-border exchanges of fire along the Line of Control (LoC) have intensified in recent months, with both sides blaming each other for provocation.

Analysts believe Pakistan’s anti-India stance over the train hijacking could further diminish the prospects for dialogue, especially with India’s general elections approaching.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif faces mounting pressure amidst escalating violence in Sindh and Balochistan. Opposition parties have criticized the government for failing to address the deteriorating security situation.

Some Indian officials view Pakistan’s allegations as politically motivated, aimed at diverting attention from its domestic crises. “This is their old playbook,” said a senior Indian diplomat on condition of anonymity.

The international community has called for restraint. U.S. State Department spokesperson Ned Price on Wednesday urged both nations to “de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue.” The United Nations reiterated its strong stance against terrorism but refrained from commenting directly on the hijacking incident.

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the issue in Parliament, asserting, “We seek peace, but not at the cost of our security.” He added that Pakistan’s past actions would dictate the future course of bilateral relations.