India has rejected references to Jammu and Kashmir in resolutions adopted at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers’ meeting in Baghdad. New Delhi accused Pakistan of using the bloc to push its anti-India agenda.
In a statement on Monday, India described the references as "malicious, biased, and false". The government expressed disappointment that the OIC had once again allowed Pakistan to use the organisation to promote its position on Kashmir.
The OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held its meeting in Baghdad on October 17 and 18. Baghdad declaration raised concerns over what it called a 'deterioration in the humanitarian, human rights and security situation in Jammu and Kashmir'. It also described the Kashmir issue as unresolved.
India Questions OIC’s Role on Kashmir
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) rejected the OIC’s comments on Jammu and Kashmir. The ministry said the organisation had no authority to comment on matters that fall strictly within India’s internal affairs. New Delhi reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh remain integral and inalienable parts of India.
India also defended its record in Jammu and Kashmir since the government abrogated Article 370 in August 2019. It highlighted economic growth and improvements in infrastructure, tourism and connectivity.
New Delhi then criticised Pakistan over its handling of protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). India accused Pakistani authorities of using violence and repression against civilian protesters. It alleged that the violence had killed scores of people, including women and children.
India also claimed that restrictions on media coverage had failed to hide the alleged human rights violations. The government maintained that Pakistan must withdraw from territories under its illegal occupation and stop supporting cross-border terrorism. India described these steps as the key outstanding issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
India Accuses Pakistan of Misusing OIC Resolutions
India also rejected references to Islamophobia in the OIC resolutions. New Delhi argued that Pakistan was using such issues to divert attention from its own record.
The government accused Pakistan of persecuting minorities, allowing sectarian violence and failing to address governance problems and political instability. It described Pakistan’s allegations against India as politically motivated.
India also questioned the OIC’s credibility. New Delhi argued that the organisation’s repeated support for Pakistan’s claims raised concerns about its integrity and impartiality.
The government urged OIC member states to push for reforms and reconsider the organisation’s approach to issues involving India.
Kashmir Dispute Continues to Strain India-Pakistan Relations
Pakistan has repeatedly sought international support for its position on Jammu and Kashmir. It has raised the issue at various international forums, including the OIC.
India continues to reject external interference in the matter. New Delhi maintains that Jammu and Kashmir forms an integral part of the country and falls within its sovereign jurisdiction.
The latest exchange highlights the continuing diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. It also reflects India’s opposition to the OIC’s involvement in the dispute and its accusation that Pakistan uses the bloc to advance its campaign against New Delhi.