India has formally objected to the depiction of an erroneous map of the country during a seminar organized by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) in Dhaka. The objection was raised after a map of India was shown that did not accurately represent the territorial integrity of Jammu and Kashmir, which India considers an integral and inalienable part of its territory.
Incident at BIISS Seminar
The incident occurred on Monday during a seminar titled "Rebuilding Trust, Renewing Regional Integration: Pathways for Revitalising SAARC," held at the BIISS auditorium. The presentation was delivered by former Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Ahmed Tariq Karim. During his remarks, a map of India was displayed that incorrectly depicted the region of Jammu and Kashmir.
Pooja Kumari Jha, Second Secretary at the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, immediately intervened, stating, "The map of India depicted is incorrect. Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India." Her objection was acknowledged by the former High Commissioner, who noted the concern.
Bangladesh's Stance on Regional Cooperation
The seminar was attended by Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed, as the chief guest. In her address, Obaed emphasized the need for deeper regional cooperation within South Asia and urged bridging the gap between potential and performance. She outlined several measures to revitalize the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), including stronger implementation capacity, greater financial strength, more effective specialized mechanisms, and a practical culture of follow-up.
Obaed also mentioned that Bangladesh is considering a calibrated set of confidence-building initiatives in the coming months, subject to consultation with SAARC member states. These initiatives may include engagement with ambassadors and high commissioners of SAARC countries based in Dhaka, consultations with the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu regarding the convening of a senior officials meeting, and the possibility of a special session of the Council of Ministers. She added, "We may also consider wider diplomatic outreach of the highest diplomatic level."
India's Firm Position on Territorial Integrity
India has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and has objected to any depiction that suggests otherwise. The objection at the BIISS seminar underscores India's vigilance in safeguarding its territorial claims, particularly in international forums and events. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka has reiterated its position that any representation of India's map must accurately reflect its territorial boundaries, including the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The incident highlights ongoing sensitivities surrounding the region, which has been a subject of dispute between India and Pakistan. India has repeatedly urged international partners to respect its territorial integrity and refrain from any actions that could undermine it.
The seminar, focused on revitalizing SAARC, provided a platform for discussing regional integration and cooperation. However, the map controversy briefly diverted attention from the main agenda, emphasizing the importance of accurate representation in diplomatic settings.
