NEW DELHI – India is outraged at the imminent release of Hafiz Saeed from house arrest, calling it an attempt by Pakistan to mainstream proscribed terrorists and a reflection of its continuing support to non-state actors.
A day earlier, the Lahore High Court (LHC) had refused to extend detention orders against Saeed, whose current house arrest is going to expire on Nov. 24 (Friday).
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Saeed’s release confirmed once again the lack of seriousness on the part of the Pakistan government in bringing to justice perpetrators of terrorism, including individuals and entities designated by the United Nations.
“It also appears to be an attempt by the Pakistani system to mainstream proscribed terrorists. Pakistan has not changed its policy of shielding and supporting non-state actors and its true face is visible for all to see,” MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a press conference.
“India, as indeed the entire international community, is outraged that a self-confessed and UN proscribed terrorist is being allowed to walk free and continue his evil agenda,” he said, adding that the terrorist was also responsible for unleashing numerous other terror attacks against Pakistan’s neighbours.
Kumar said it was the responsibility of the Pakistan government to fulfil its international obligations and take credible and effective action against terrorists like Saeed.
The banned Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) head, who carries a bounty of $10 million announced by the US for his role in terror activities, has been under detention since January.
Replying to a question on whether the Donald Trump administration has been soft on dealing with terrorism emanating from Pakistan, Kumar called the observation wrong. He said both India and the US were on the “same page” in combating terrorism.
