Fadnavis Claims Desire for Union with India in PoK and Pakistan
Maharashtra's CM asserts that citizens in Pakistan and PoK wish to join India, criticizing JKNC's Farooq Abdullah.
Fadnavis highlights struggles of people in Pakistan for basic necessities.
Criticism directed at Farooq Abdullah for his pro-Pakistan stance.
BJP leaders reaffirm India's claim over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
On October 25, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a bold statement regarding the sentiments of people in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), suggesting they wish to join India. This remark was part of his criticism aimed at Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) Chief Farooq Abdullah, who had previously made comments regarding the Kashmir issue.
Fadnavis pointed out the dire situation faced by citizens in Pakistan, who are struggling to secure basic food items. He remarked, "While some individuals continue to praise Pakistan, they should take a moment to reflect on the hardships faced by its citizens. In contrast, Jammu and Kashmir is secure and prosperous as part of India, where people enjoy respect and dignity. I believe many in Pakistan, particularly in PoK, also wish to be part of India."
The comments from Fadnavis were echoed by Syed Nasiruddin Chishti, president of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, who condemned Abdullah's statements as "deeply unfortunate and shameful." Chishti emphasized that Abdullah's son, Omar Abdullah, serves as Chief Minister due to the democratic framework of India, and criticized Pakistan for its history of terrorism in Kashmir, which has led to significant loss of life.
BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh also weighed in, reiterating India's stance on PoK. He stated, "The affection some people have for Pakistan sometimes leads to statements like these. Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir has always been and will continue to be an integral part of India. The Government of India firmly believes in this."
These remarks came in response to Farooq Abdullah's assertion earlier that day, during a convention in Baramulla, where he claimed that Pakistan is safeguarding the interests of Jammu and Kashmir by raising the issue internationally. Abdullah questioned the central government's intentions towards the region, suggesting that Kashmiris could not expect justice from Delhi and that Pakistan's efforts were pressuring India on the global stage.
