Remarks on the 2008 Mumbai attacks / media interview, May 2018
In an interview, Nawaz asked: "Militant organisations are active. Call them non-state actors, should we allow them to cross the border and kill 150 people in Mumbai? Explain it to me. Why can’t we complete the trial?"
His party later claimed the Indian media "grossly misinterpreted" his remarks.
The Pakistan Army and civil establishment held a meeting of the NSC (National Security Council) in the wake of his remarks, signalling institutional concern.
Why controversial: Because referencing the Mumbai attacks so frankly-and questioning the ability to complete the trial-was seen as politically and diplomatically sensitive; also raised questions about Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism.
His party later claimed the Indian media "grossly misinterpreted" his remarks.
The Pakistan Army and civil establishment held a meeting of the NSC (National Security Council) in the wake of his remarks, signalling institutional concern.
Why controversial: Because referencing the Mumbai attacks so frankly-and questioning the ability to complete the trial-was seen as politically and diplomatically sensitive; also raised questions about Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism.
Sources
Indian Express
Pakistan’s security panel rejects Nawaz Sharif’s remarks on 26/11 attacks as misleading, blames India for delaying trial
India Today
Grossly misinterpreted, says Nawaz Sharif about his 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks comment
New Indian Express
Pakistan National Security Committee rejects Nawaz Sharif's remarks on Mumbai attack as misleading