India Urges Global Action on PoK Protests, Accuses Pakistan of Systemic Exploitation
India has called on the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for what it describes as decades-long systemic exploitation and denial of fundamental rights in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoK). The statement came amid ongoing protests in the region against Pakistani administration.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a media briefing on Tuesday, said the protests are a direct consequence of Pakistan's actions. 'Rather than addressing the legitimate grievances of the local population, the Pakistani state has responded with excessive police brutality,' Jaiswal said. He added that India expects the international community to hold Pakistan fully accountable for these abuses.
India has consistently maintained that PoK is an integral part of India and has repeatedly accused Pakistan of human rights violations there. The latest protests have drawn international attention, with India amplifying its criticism.
On the situation in West Asia, Jaiswal expressed concern over attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, which killed one Indian seafarer. India called for safe and uninterrupted navigation, emphasizing its importance for global economic and energy security. Government sources later said 13 Indians have been killed and three are missing in the Gulf region since February 28, 2026.
Responding to reports about former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's possible return, Jaiswal said there has been no change in India's approach. 'Any extradition matter is a legal issue, and it will be dealt with accordingly,' he noted.
On fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, Jaiswal stated that legal proceedings are ongoing, and he will be extradited to India once they are completed.
Regarding the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) linking the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Jaiswal welcomed the remarks, saying they align with a recent US indictment. He reiterated India's commitment to cooperating with partners in combating terrorism and transnational organized crime.
