Pakistan rejects India's claims of communal issue in Nankana Sahib

ISLAMABAD: Allegations of the desecration and destruction of a holy place in Nankana Sahib are "not only false but also mischievous", the Foreign Office said Friday. 

The statement came after scores of demonstrators protesting against police in the small Punjab town dispersed after getting assurances from a local politician. 

"Attempts to paint this incident as a communal issue are patently motivated. Most importantly, the Gurdwara remains untouched and undamaged," the Foreign Office added. 

"All insinuations to the contrary, particularly the claims of acts of 'desecration and destruction' and desecration of the holy place, are not only false but also mischievous," the Foreign Office said, rejecting Indian propaganda attempts.

Read more: Protesters in Nankana Sahib disperse after assurance of justice

"The provincial authorities in the Punjab province have informed that there was scuffle in the city of Nankana Sahib today, between two Muslim groups. The altercation happened on a minor incident at a tea-stall.

"The District Administration immediately intervened and arrested the accused, who are now in custody," the statement read.

"The Government of Pakistan remains committed to upholding law and order and providing security and protection to the people, especially the minorities.

"The opening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor is a manifestation of Pakistan’s special care extended to the minorities, in line with the vision of the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah," it said.