Islamabad: The Government of Pakistan has expelled a staff member of the Indian High Commission (HC), declaring him persona non grata. The decision came after allegations of engaging in activities that violated his diplomatic privileges.
According to the Foreign Office, the individual was ordered to leave Pakistan within 24 hours. A formal press release issued late Wednesday night confirmed the development.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Indian Chargé d’Affaires to deliver a strong demarche. The ministry emphasized that no diplomat or staff member of the Indian mission should misuse their diplomatic status or breach international norms.
“The concerned official has been directed to leave the country within a day,” said the Foreign Office spokesperson. “This step was taken in response to actions incompatible with the official’s privileged status.”
This move underscores rising tensions between Pakistan and India, especially regarding diplomatic conduct and security concerns.
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India Accused of Undermining Pakistan’s Security
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif added fuel to the issue. Speaking to media in Sialkot, he accused India of sponsoring terrorist activities in Pakistan.
“We have concrete evidence of India’s involvement in terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” Asif claimed. He called on the international community to take serious notice of India’s destabilizing actions.
The minister’s statement follows a growing number of incidents linking Indian networks to unrest within Pakistan. While details about the expelled official’s activities remain confidential, authorities have signaled the matter was serious.
Diplomatic Norms Must Be Respected
The Pakistani Foreign Office reiterated that all foreign diplomats must respect their host country’s laws and international protocols.
“Diplomatic status should not be exploited,” said the spokesperson. “Pakistan reserves the right to take appropriate actions against any individual found in breach of these standards.”
Pakistan’s decision aligns with international diplomatic practices. Declaring a foreign official persona non grata is a legal step that allows a host country to expel diplomats engaged in undesirable activities.
The Indian High Commission has not publicly responded to the expulsion as of now.
Regional Tensions Remain High
This latest development adds another layer of strain to the already tense relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Cross-border incidents, intelligence clashes, and diplomatic face-offs continue to mar bilateral ties.
Analysts believe this step signals Pakistan’s intent to respond firmly to any perceived violation of its sovereignty or internal stability.
“This is not just a routine expulsion,” said a senior diplomat on condition of anonymity. “It’s a clear message—Pakistan will not tolerate covert actions under the guise of diplomacy.”
The expulsion of the Indian staffer highlights the fragile nature of Pakistan-India diplomatic ties. It also reflects Islamabad’s growing concern over foreign interference in national affairs. As both countries navigate complex regional dynamics, such actions could further impact peace efforts and bilateral engagement.
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