The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday lodged a strong protest against Pakistan's plans to hold general elections in the Gilgit-Baltistan assembly, located in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). The elections are scheduled for 7 June 2026.
India's Stance on Jammu and Kashmir
The MEA reiterated India's unwavering position that the entire regions of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of India. This includes the Gilgit-Baltistan area, which is under Pakistan's illegal occupation. The statement emphasized that these territories became part of India through the complete, legal, and irrevocable accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India in 1947.
Rejection of Pakistani Actions
India categorically rejected any attempts by Pakistan to bring about material changes in the illegally occupied territories. The MEA demanded that Pakistan must vacate all Indian territories it currently holds. The statement underscored that such electoral exercises cannot mask the underlying issues of grave human rights violations, political repression, economic exploitation, and denial of freedom in these regions.
Human Rights Concerns
The Indian government further emphasized that Pakistan's actions cannot hide the reality of severe human rights abuses and the suppression of fundamental freedoms in the territories under its illegal control. India called on the international community to take note of these violations.
Background
Pakistan has periodically held elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, which India considers a part of its sovereign territory. The region was part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir before its accession to India. India has consistently opposed any such moves by Pakistan, viewing them as an attempt to legitimize its illegal occupation.
The MEA's protest was conveyed through diplomatic channels, and India remains committed to the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue while maintaining its territorial integrity.
