Islamabad: On Monday, Pakistan responded to the Indian Supreme Court’s verdict upholding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir with a strong statement rejecting its validity. Pakistan’s caretaker Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, declared that the verdict has “no legal value” and that international law does not recognize New Delhi’s actions as legitimate.
Jilani further emphasized that the judicial endorsement of India’s unilateral actions amounts to “a travesty of justice.” He asserted that the Pakistani government categorically rejects the Indian Supreme Court’s judgment and reiterates its support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, a right enshrined in relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
The Indian government’s August 5, 2019 move to revoke Article 370, which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, drew immediate and vocal condemnation from Pakistan. This action significantly escalated tensions between the two nations, leading to diplomatic downgrades and increased military activity along the border.
Pakistan’s stance on the issue remains unchanged, emphasizing that the Kashmir dispute requires a peaceful resolution through dialogue and in accordance with UN resolutions. The government maintains that India’s unilateral actions have undermined any possibility of a peaceful resolution and have further destabilized the region.
The international community has also expressed concern regarding the situation in Kashmir, urging both India and Pakistan to engage in constructive dialogue and refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions. The United Nations Secretary-General has called for a peaceful resolution to the dispute and for respect for human rights in Kashmir.
The Indian Supreme Court’s verdict is likely to exacerbate the existing animosity between India and Pakistan. It remains to be seen how both countries navigate the complex political and diplomatic landscape in the wake of this significant legal development. The situation in Kashmir continues to be closely monitored by the international community, with concerns for human rights, regional stability, and a peaceful resolution to the decades-long dispute.
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