Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani vehemently criticized the recent Indian Supreme Court decision upholding the revocation of occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s special status from 2019. He labeled the judgment as a product of a “compliant judiciary,” highlighting its lack of legal weight.
In a press conference, Mr. Jilani lambasted the Indian judiciary, claiming its credibility had been compromised, particularly under the current Indian leadership. He denounced the ruling as an “injustice,” based on distorted historical and legal arguments, failing to recognize Kashmir’s internationally disputed status.
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The foreign minister emphasized that the decision couldn’t overshadow the severe human rights violations in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan firmly rejects the application of the Indian constitution to Jammu and Kashmir, considering it a globally recognized dispute. Mr. Jilani stressed that any process tied to the Indian constitution holds no legal significance.
Accusing India of circumventing global obligations through domestic laws and court rulings, Mr. Jilani asserted that India’s efforts to integrate held Kashmir would fail. He described the validation of the August 5, 2019 action as a “grave injustice.”
He underscored that restoring statehood and holding local elections couldn’t replace the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, urging the withdrawal of these measures for peace and dialogue.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Mr. Jilani announced plans to convene a meeting of stakeholders and engage with international bodies like the UN, OIC, and European Parliament to highlight concerns about the ruling.
Former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also condemned the Indian SC’s ruling, citing it as further evidence of India’s repeated violations of international laws and UN resolutions. He urged global powers to reconsider their support for India, reiterating that Kashmir remains a disputed territory under international law.
