New Delhi, May 15: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has addressed the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), highlighting the comparison residents there might be making with their counterparts in Jammu and Kashmir.
“There is evident ferment in PoJK, observable through various media channels. While the analysis of this situation is intricate, it’s undeniable that individuals in PoJK are likely comparing their circumstances with those in Jammu and Kashmir,” remarked EAM Jaishankar.
He emphasized that individuals across the border perceive themselves as under occupation, facing discrimination, and being treated unfairly, which likely fuels such comparisons.
Regarding the possibility of merging PoJK with India, Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance, asserting that part of Kashmir has always been and will remain an integral part of India.
“Until recently, there was less discussion about PoJK, particularly when Article 370 was in place,” Jaishankar noted. He mentioned past instances, such as the unanimous parliamentary resolution in the 1990s, prompted by pressure from Western countries.
The recent violent protests in PoJK, triggered by a rise in electricity prices, have resulted in casualties, with three individuals killed and six injured due to Pakistani security forces opening fire on protesters.
