BJP preparing to repeat Myanmar-style genocide in India: PM

Prime Minister Imran Khan has warned the international community that India's ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) was preparing to repeat the Myanmar-style genocide and exclusion of its minority Muslim population. He said that as many as 500 million people will be excluded from the citizenship list under India's new controversial laws such as the exercise of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

"This is exactly what happened in Myanmar when they first started the registration act and that's how they excluded the Muslims and then the genocide took place. I am afraid this is where it is heading in India," the prime minister said.

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency in Islamabad, Prime Minister Imran spoke in detail on an array of issues including the situation in the Middle East, Afghanistan, relations with Turkey, domestic issues, country's economy, climate changes, relations with neighbouring India and its actions in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Responding to a question regarding the possibility of any influx of immigrants toward Pakistan and Bangladesh from India in the wake of current developments, Khan said, "Bangladesh has already refused to take anyone, who has been excluded from the citizenship list in the northeastern Indian state of Assam."

"I think Bangladesh is already worried because in Assam they deregistered almost 2 million people. I do not know the exact number but what will happen to these people?" Khan asked.

Talking about the recent tension between the United States (US) and Iran, Khan said tension still existed but expressed satisfaction that war was averted in the region following diplomatic efforts.

"We feel, we played our part and brought down tensions. But of course, you know, there has to be some permanent solution," he said. The prime minister rejected the criticism of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and brushed aside apprehensions about China's debt. "So, this thing is quite unfounded that Pakistan is getting into a debt trap of China," Imran clarified.

Talking about the Islamic world, he said Pakistan's utmost urgency will be to douse fires and bring parties to conciliation, so that countries can focus on developing their infrastructure.

He hoped that during the scheduled visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the middle of February, trading partnership between the two countries can be enhanced.

"There are various areas where Turkey can help Pakistan for instance in mining. Pakistan is a country which is full of minerals, but we have not excavated explored minerals like gold and copper. We want certain areas where we want technology. So, it will be quite a comprehensive visit," he said.

The prime minister recalled that in 1920 people, particularly Muslims in the Indian sub-continent, had helped Turkey in its difficult times. He proposed to celebrate the 100th year of this generosity and relations between Turkey and Muslims of the subcontinent in 2020.