ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has strongly criticized what it described as “false and misleading propaganda” by sections of the Indian media, saying such reporting is aimed at creating instability in the region and amplifying extremist narratives.
According to the ministry, certain Indian outlets have been promoting unverified claims in support of militant groups. One private channel, NDTV, reported that 22 Pakistani soldiers were killed in an ambush in Kurram on October 8. However, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) clarified that the operation in question actually took place in Orakzai district on October 7 and 8, not in Kurram. ISPR confirmed that 11 soldiers were martyred during the intelligence-based operation, while 19 militants were neutralized.
Another Indian channel, Republic News India, claimed that militant group Fitna-ul-Kharij carried out 16 attacks on the Pakistan Army within 24 hours. This, too, was rejected as inaccurate. ISPR stated that only five militants were killed during targeted operations, and no such wave of attacks occurred.
Officials in Islamabad said these reports reflect a deliberate attempt to mislead audiences and fuel regional tensions. They stressed that such narratives not only distort facts but also risk emboldening terrorist groups.
The ministry reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to countering terrorism and safeguarding regional peace. It urged media organizations to act responsibly and avoid spreading unverified or politically motivated claims.