India has strongly rejected what it termed 'unwarranted references' to Jammu and Kashmir in a joint statement issued by China and Pakistan. The statement, released after bilateral talks between the two nations, opposed 'any unilateral actions' concerning the region, an apparent reference to India's decision on August 5, 2019, to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganize it into two Union Territories.
India's Response
The Ministry of External Affairs issued a formal response, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and that no external party has any locus standi on the matter. India's position remains firm that any discussions on the region are bilateral in nature and do not involve third parties.
Background of the Dispute
Since India's abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, both China and Pakistan have repeatedly raised objections. China claims parts of the region under its control, while Pakistan asserts a historical claim over the entire territory. The joint statement underscores their alignment on the issue, but India has categorically dismissed such references as interference in its internal affairs.
India has urged both countries to refrain from making statements that undermine regional stability and has called for respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The rejection comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions, with India emphasizing that any resolution of the Kashmir issue must be based on bilateral mechanisms, not external mediation.
