Pakistan alerts OIC to India’s Kashmir control measures amid growing tensions
Indian army personnel look on during a search operation, in Reasi on June 10, 2024. PHOTO: AFP
Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi on Friday updated the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), highlighting concerns over India's efforts to tighten its control over the region through what he described as an “atmosphere of intimidation and fear.”
Leading Pakistan’s delegation at the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting held on August 29-30 in Cameroon, Qazi addressed the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinians, calling for an immediate ceasefire.
During the meeting, Qazi also briefed the OIC Contact Group on Kashmir, chaired by Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha. He outlined the impact of India’s 2019 decision to revoke Kashmir’s special constitutional status under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, which has exacerbated tensions between India and Pakistan.
According to a foreign office statement, Qazi criticised India’s actions in Kashmir, noting they contravene United Nations Security Council resolutions and contribute to an environment of oppression. He called for India to release all political detainees and lift restrictions on political activities in Kashmir.
In response, the OIC Contact Group unanimously issued a communique emphasising that long-term peace and stability in South Asia depend on resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.
India is preparing for its first regional elections in Kashmir in a decade, scheduled between September 18 and October 1. This will allow Kashmiris to elect their local assembly members, marking a shift from direct rule by New Delhi. The election results are set to be announced on October 4.