India has voiced ‘deep concern’ over the recent rise in the targeted killings of journalists and civil society activists in Afghanistan and called for the “immediate and comprehensive” ceasefire in the country.
Replying to a query during a weekly briefing, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said that the attacks on journalists and civil society members are aimed at suppressing the freedom of expression and informed discussions on critical issues related to peace and governance, adding that such attacks should “immediately stop”.
“We have seen reports in the past few weeks of attacks on journalists and civil society activists in Afghanistan. The targeted killing of journalists and civil society members aimed at suppressing the freedom of expression and informed discussion on critical issues related to peace and governance is of deep concern. These attacks are contrary to the spirit of the peace process and should immediately stop,” he said.
“People of Afghanistan long for a peaceful future and immediate and comprehensive ceasefire will lay the ground for a meaningful peace process to establish a peaceful, progressive, prosperous Afghanistan. India stands with the people of Afghanistan in their journey towards peace,” he added.
