In a shocking departure from diplomatic norms, Pakistan’s former High Commissioner to India, Abdul Basit, has issued a direct threat of terror attacks on Indian soil. In a provocative statement released on Sunday, Basit claimed that Pakistan is capable of and prepared to launch strikes on India’s two most prominent cities—Delhi and Mumbai. The inflammatory remarks have sent shockwaves across the subcontinent, prompting an immediate high-alert in India.

Basit, who once represented Pakistan’s diplomatic interests in New Delhi, was seen in a belligerent mood as he warned of consequences if India continued its diplomatic offensive against Islamabad. “We will not remain silent. Delhi and Mumbai are on our radar, and we will strike to show our power,” Basit reportedly stated, echoing the language of militant organizations rather than a seasoned diplomat.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has taken a grim view of the situation, stating that such comments from a former high-ranking official expose the “deep-rooted terror mindset” prevalent in Pakistan’s establishment. Coming years after the tragic 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the threat to India’s financial and political hubs is being treated with utmost seriousness by national security agencies.

Intelligence bureaus (IB) and local police forces in Delhi and Mumbai have intensified patrolling and surveillance in sensitive zones, including airports, railway stations, and crowded markets. Defense experts suggest that Basit’s outburst is a desperate attempt to divert attention from Pakistan’s ongoing internal economic collapse and political instability. However, South Block has made it clear that any attempt to breach India’s sovereignty will be met with a decisive and crushing response.