By Iftikhar Mashwani
ISLAMABAD: Remarks reportedly made by Federal Minister Malik referring to Kashmiris as “Indians” have raised serious questions, as such terminology appears inconsistent with Pakistan’s longstanding and officially declared position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
Many times some Pakistani responsible people gave irresponsible statements regarding Indian held Jammu and Kashmir.
In a widely circulated video, the minister’s choice of words has drawn concern among observers who argue that Kashmiris living in the disputed territory should not be described in a manner that could imply recognition of Indian sovereignty over Jammu and Kashmir.
Pakistan officially considers Jammu and Kashmir an internationally recognised disputed territory whose final status must be determined through a free and impartial plebiscite under United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Islamabad maintains that Kashmiris possess an inalienable right to self-determination and continues to extend political, diplomatic and moral support to their struggle.
The minister Mushadiq Malik should therefore clarify whether the expression was an inadvertent slip, a reference to people living under Indian administration, or a departure from established national policy.
Statements concerning such a sensitive issue must be framed carefully, particularly when delivered by a government representative.
The Kashmir dispute is also strategically connected to Pakistan’s water security because the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab rivers flow through the disputed region.
Nevertheless, the Indus Waters Treaty remains a separate, binding international agreement that Pakistan says India cannot suspend or terminate unilaterally. (Pakistan Foreign Ministry’s position on the IWT).
Pakistan must pursue a coherent diplomatic strategy addressing both the Kashmir dispute and its water-security concerns.
A just and lasting settlement of the Kashmir issue, reflecting the wishes of the Kashmiri people, is essential for durable peace and stability in South Asia.
