Ladakh Lieutenant Governor B.D. Gupta has issued a strong statement on territorial disputes in the region. He declared China's claim over the Shaksgam valley completely unacceptable. Gupta emphasized that the entire area of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir rightfully belongs to India.
India's Firm Stance on Shaksgam Valley
The Lieutenant Governor made these remarks during a recent address. He clarified India's position on the Shaksgam valley, which lies in the northern part of the region. China has asserted control over this area through agreements with Pakistan. Gupta stated that such claims hold no validity from India's perspective.
Complete Sovereignty Over PoK
Gupta went further to assert India's sovereignty over all of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He described PoK as an integral part of Indian territory. The Lieutenant Governor explained that historical and legal frameworks support India's position. He called for consistent recognition of this reality in international discussions.
Criticism of Pakistan's Governance
In his comments, Gupta also directed criticism toward Pakistan. He accused the neighboring country of failing its own citizens. The Lieutenant Governor pointed to what he called questionable dealings by Pakistani authorities. He suggested these actions undermine regional stability and development.
Regional Implications
The statement comes amid ongoing tensions in the region. Territorial disputes involving China and Pakistan remain unresolved. Gupta's remarks reinforce India's diplomatic position on these matters. They highlight continuing differences over border demarcations in the Himalayan region.
Observers note that such declarations maintain pressure on both China and Pakistan. They reflect India's consistent policy regarding its territorial integrity. The Lieutenant Governor's comments align with official positions expressed by the Indian government in recent years.