'Govt must ensure protection of Hindus in Pak'

Bharatiya Janata Party President Rajnath Singh on Thursday expressed concern over attacks on Hindus and Sikhs by Pakistan-based Taliban and asked the government to take up the matter with the neighbouring country "immediately and in full earnest."

Referring to reports of attacks on Hindu families in Pakistan forcing them to flee to Rajasthan and atrocities on Sikhs in Swat valley there, Singh said, "The BJP expresses its serious concern over this issue. This might be a clear case of ethnic cleansing by the Taliban and its affiliates."

"Given the track record of Pakistan towards its minorities, the government of Pakistan cannot do away with its responsibilities," he added.

Singh also took a dig at the United Progressive Alliance government, saying it was ironical that the government of India has taken such a "soft stand" towards Pakistan at the recent meeting in Sharm-al-Sheikh but never looked at the pain and suffering of Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan.

"The government must realise its real responsibilities than the niceties of foreign policy statements that emanate out of summit meetings with the leaders of Pakistan that never lead to any concrete results," he said.

The BJP leader stated that there is an urgent need for a "definitive course of action" by our government to ensure that the Pakistan government provides full protection to the property and rights of these families.

"The government of India needs to take up this issue immediately with Pakistan and in full earnest," he added.