Islamabad: Pakistan has firmly dismissed remarks made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs concerning the ongoing legislative assembly elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, describing them as unfounded and politically motivated. According to Radio Pakistan, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi addressed these comments during a weekly news briefing, coinciding with the 7th anniversary of India’s actions on August 5th, which Pakistan views as an attempt to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir.
Andrabi emphasized that India’s actions, which Pakistan deems illegal and unilateral, violate United Nations Security Council resolutions, international law, and India’s own commitments. He stated that the elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir are being conducted peacefully and transparently, reflecting the democratic aspirations of its people. Andrabi further asserted that India lacks the legal standing to comment on the democratic processes in AJK while denying political rights to the people in Indian-administered Kashmir.
The Spokesperson highlighted that misinformation cannot change the legal status of Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that its final disposition should be determined by UN resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people. Andrabi also accused India of using these statements to divert attention from its human rights violations and failure to fulfill international obligations.
Reiterating Pakistan’s call for India to reverse its actions, Andrabi urged the creation of an environment conducive to peacefully resolving the Kashmir issue. He acknowledged a recent statement by a UN deputy spokesperson affirming the unchanged status of the disputed territory, aligning with Pakistan’s stance and international law.
In a broader regional context, Andrabi noted Pakistan’s efforts in the Gulf and the Middle East, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz, and praised Oman for its role in de-escalation efforts. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to diplomatic engagement and supporting efforts for a lasting resolution to regional conflicts.