Source TOI
New Delhi: India on Friday strongly objected to Pakistan’s reported plans to conduct elections in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), reiterating that the territory remains an integral part of India.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a firm statement condemning the move, asserting that any attempt by Pakistan to alter the status of the region is illegal and unacceptable. “The entire region of Jammu and Kashmir, including Gilgit-Baltistan, is and will always remain an integral part of India,” the statement said.
India further called upon Pakistan to vacate all areas under its illegal occupation, emphasizing that such actions only undermine peace and stability in the region. Officials noted that holding elections in the disputed territory is an attempt by Islamabad to legitimize its control, which India does not recognize.
The development comes amid ongoing tensions between the two countries over Kashmir. Gilgit-Baltistan, strategically located and bordering China and Afghanistan, has long been a focal point in the broader dispute.
India has consistently opposed any political or administrative changes made by Pakistan in PoK, maintaining that these actions violate international norms and bilateral agreements. The latest protest reflects New Delhi’s continued stance against what it calls Pakistan’s “illegal occupation” of the region.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has defended its position, stating that electoral processes are aimed at ensuring governance and representation for the people of the region. However, India remains firm that such measures have no legal standing.
The situation adds another layer of strain to already fragile India-Pakistan relations, with both sides unlikely to soften their positions in the near future.
