Jaishankar Affirms the Liberation of POK

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar affirmed on Monday that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) would cease its “illegal occupation” and become integrated into India. During a media interaction in Mumbai, Jaishankar emphasized the Modi government’s unwavering stance on the issue, citing parliamentary resolutions asserting PoK’s status as part of India. Jaishankar highlighted the government’s intention to end PoK’s illegal occupation, reiterating India’s historical and legal claim over the region. He also criticized opponents of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, framing it as a significant achievement towards the integration and development of the region.

Addressing former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah’s remarks regarding potential Pakistani aggression, Jaishankar criticized leaders who fear Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities to the extent that they advocate avoiding discussions about PoK. He emphasized India’s pride in its atomic arsenal and criticized the notion that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons should deter discussions on reclaiming PoK. Jaishankar also contrasted the BJP-led NDA’s support for the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) with opposition parties’ perceived prioritization of vote bank politics over national interests. He portrayed the government’s stance on the CAA as progressive and aimed at addressing humanitarian concerns while characterizing opposition parties as captive to electoral calculations.

[Image Source: Tehalka.com]