India has dismissed the remarks made by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide regarding Kashmir during his recent visit to Islamabad. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) asserted that Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh are an “integral and inalienable part of India.” Officials urged the international community to pay attention to the alleged violations occurring in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK).

This response came in the wake of discussions between Eide and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, where regional topics, including Jammu and Kashmir, were deliberated. A joint statement released by both sides reflected their focus on various regional challenges, potentially including Afghanistan.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised India’s concerns regarding the situation in POK and connected it to Pakistan’s alleged use of the territory for cross-border terrorism. He stated that the international community’s primary concern should be the ongoing atrocities in POK, calling for increased awareness and response to these issues.

Unrest and Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir

The MEA highlighted the rising protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, where demands for political reform and economic relief have intensified amid growing discontent over escalating prices and electricity costs. Demonstrations led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) have broadened into a significant movement advocating for accountability and systemic change.

Reports indicate an aggressive crackdown by Pakistani security forces in response to these protests. Videos circulated on social media reportedly show confrontations between demonstrators and security personnel. Member of JAAC, Sardar Umar Nazir Kashmiri, asserted that over fifty individuals have died, with hundreds more injured during the unrest; however, these figures remain unverified independently.

Thousands participated in rallies on Thursday across POK, expressing solidarity with the JAAC and protesting against governmental violence. The situation has drawn international attention, as the MEA has consistently critiqued the handling of such demonstrations by Pakistani authorities.

Stance on Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan’s Critique

The MEA also addressed comments made by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who condemned India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, labelling India as an “enemy of peace.” In response, Jaiswal reiterated that India’s position regarding the treaty remains unchanged, despite Pakistan’s implications of unilateral action.

During an event in Islamabad on Thursday, Sharif warned India over its approach towards water resources, declaring that Pakistan views any restriction on its water access as a “red line.” He cautioned that a lack of resolution would lead to direct consequences.

The treaty was suspended by India following a terror attack in Pahalgam in April last year that resulted in civilian casualties. New Delhi has stood firm on its position concerning the agreement notwithstanding recurring criticism from Islamabad regarding its actions.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share