Jammu and Kashmir, March 6, 2025 — In a sharp retort to External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar’s recent statements regarding Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah questioned the central government’s intentions and capabilities concerning the region.
Addressing the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Abdullah remarked, “The foreign minister has said that they will bring back the portion of Kashmir controlled by Pakistan. Did we ever stop them? If they can bring it back, they should do it now.”
He further highlighted the issue of territories under Chinese control, stating, “One portion is with Pakistan, but another portion is with China—why doesn’t anyone talk about that?”
These comments come in response to EAM Jaishankar’s assertion that PoK is an integral part of India, referencing a parliamentary resolution that affirms this stance.
Abdullah also criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly undermining the legacy of Maharaja Hari Singh by bifurcating the erstwhile state into two Union Territories and revoking laws that protected local interests in land and employment.
The exchange has sparked renewed political debate over India’s territorial claims and the central government’s policies in the region.