India Rejects Pakistan’s Claims on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, Raises Concerns Over Human Rights Violations
India has strongly rejected Pakistan’s claims regarding Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, alleging systemic oppression and human rights abuses in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs also addressed Gulf maritime developments, the Qatar explosion that killed 12 Indians, defence ties with the UAE, and concerns over minority safety in Bangladesh.
Addressing the media in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal categorically rejected what he described as fabricated allegations made by Pakistan. He stated that the ongoing protests across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are the result of Pakistan’s decades-long policy of systemic economic exploitation, denial of fundamental rights, and administrative oppression in territories under its illegal and forcible occupation.
Jaiswal further alleged that Pakistani authorities have responded to public dissent with excessive police force, restrictions on essential supplies and medicines, internet shutdowns, and the use of lethal force against unarmed civilians. He expressed hope that the international community would hold Pakistan accountable for what India described as persistent abuses and misconduct in the region.
Commenting on developments in the Gulf region, Jaiswal said that ten Indian-flagged vessels remain in the Persian Gulf area. He noted that since the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran on June 17, a total of eleven India-bound vessels have successfully transited through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the spokesperson, these vessels include three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers, each carrying more than 285,000 metric tonnes of crude oil, one foreign-flagged liquefied petroleum gas carrier, one foreign-flagged crude oil tanker, and six foreign-flagged bulk carriers transporting fertilizer cargo. He expressed confidence that the remaining Indian-flagged vessels would also be able to pass through the strategic waterway in the coming days.
Addressing the recent explosion in Qatar, Jaiswal confirmed that twelve Indian citizens lost their lives in the incident. He stated that a total of sixty-six people were injured and are currently undergoing medical treatment. India, he said, is working closely with the Government of Qatar to expedite procedures related to the repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased.
On the India-United Arab Emirates defence partnership, Jaiswal emphasized that bilateral relations have witnessed significant growth in recent years, with defence cooperation emerging as a key pillar of the expanding strategic relationship between the two countries.
Responding to questions regarding Bangladesh, the spokesperson referred to reports of desecration involving deities and religious images that have triggered protests. He stated that India expects the Government of Bangladesh to take effective measures against extremist elements and ensure the safety and security of minority communities.
The remarks underscore India’s continued focus on regional security, human rights concerns, maritime stability, and the protection of its citizens abroad, while highlighting New Delhi’s growing diplomatic engagement across South Asia and the Gulf region.

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