ISLAMABAD – Foreign Office has categorically rejected Indian allegationsthat Pakistan is attempting to incite Indian pilgrims on the issue ofKhalistan.

In a statement on Tuesday, Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisalsaid that by spreading such falsehoods, India has chosen to deliberatelystoke further controversy around the visit of Sikh pilgrims, currentlyattending the Baisakhi and Khalsa Janamdin ceremonies in Pakistan.

Dr Muhammad Faisal pointed out the Sikh community has been protestingagainst the Government of India for screening a controversial movie inIndia, which hurt their religious sentiments. These protests had started inIndia and other parts of the world before the Sikh Yatrees arrived inPakistan.

The spokesperson said the Indian attempts to distort the truth andobfuscate facts are unethical and regrettable.

The spokesperson said Pakistan welcomes and facilitates Hindu and Sikhpilgrims from all over the world, including India.