India called for an end to bloodshed in Myanmar on Thursday, only days after the country's military regime used airstrikes that killed over 100 civilians in the Sagaing district, news agency PTI reported. Myanmar's military has used airstrikes to attack its opponents and those engaged in armed conflict against the governing junta, which took power in a coup in February 2021.
At a press conference, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi emphasised India's commitment to the restoration of peace, stability, and democracy in Myanmar.
The airstrikes on Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing area on Tuesday are regarded as one of the worst offensives since the military seized power, deposing Aung San Suu Kyi's democratic government.
"We have seen disturbing reports of violence on April 11 near Kanbalu township in the Sagaing region of Myanmar. As a neighbour and friend of people of Myanmar we have repeatedly called for cessation of violence by all sides and peaceful resolution of all issues," he was quoted by PTI in its report.
In response to a question on the air strikes, he stated: "India reiterates its call for a return of peace, stability and democracy in Myanmar."
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According to accounts, over 130 people were killed in airstrikes on Tuesday in Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing area, including women and children.
It is regarded as one of the worst bombings carried out since the junta took control in a coup two years ago.
The military seized control in a coup on February 1, 2021, and declared a state of emergency after arresting Nobel laureate Suu Kyi and other leaders of the National League for Democracy (NLD).
Protests throughout the country have called for the return of democracy.
Myanmar is one of India's critical neighbors, sharing a 1,640-kilometer border with many northeastern states, notably militancy-ravaged Nagaland and Manipur.
(With Inputs From PTI)