India-Pakistan News Live Updates: MEA Reaffirms Kashmir Must Be Addressed Bilaterally
In a significant reaffirmation of its longstanding policy, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India stated that the Kashmir issue remains a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan. The announcement came amidst rising regional tensions and renewed international interest in the India-Pakistan dynamic.
MEA’s Stand on Kashmir
During a recent press briefing, MEA spokesperson highlighted that any discussions regarding Jammu and Kashmir must take place directly between New Delhi and Islamabad.
The statement comes in response to renewed calls from international organizations and some foreign powers urging third-party mediation.
“India’s position remains consistent and clear. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Any resolution of issues with Pakistan has to be done bilaterally,” the spokesperson stated.
This aligns with India’s policy dating back to the 1972 Shimla Agreement, which emphasizes peaceful resolution through bilateral negotiations, rejecting any third-party involvement.
Background: India-Pakistan Tensions Over Kashmir
Kashmir has long been a flashpoint in India-Pakistan relations. Both nations claim the region in full but govern separate parts. The revocation of Article 370 by India in August 2019, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, escalated tensions significantly, with Pakistan opposing the move on international platforms.
Why This Statement Matters Now
The MEA’s reiteration comes amid speculation over possible back-channel dialogues and international pressure for engagement between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. India’s firm diplomatic tone signals that while it is open to dialogue, it will not tolerate foreign intervention in its internal affairs.
Reactions from Pakistan
Pakistan’s foreign office responded by urging India to create a “conducive environment” for talks, highlighting alleged human rights violations in Kashmir. However, India dismissed these claims as politically motivated and reiterated that the constitutional changes in J&K are an internal matter.
International Perspective
The United Nations and various global leaders have repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution. However, India has consistently maintained that third-party involvement is unwelcome and that dialogue must be bilateral, in line with previous accords.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What did the Indian MEA say about the Kashmir issue?
A: The MEA stated that Kashmir is a bilateral issue that must be resolved between India and Pakistan without any third-party mediation.
Q2. Why is Kashmir a point of conflict between India and Pakistan?
A: Both countries claim Kashmir in full but control parts of it. The conflict dates back to the partition of British India in 1947 and has resulted in multiple wars and continuous tension.
Q3. What is the Shimla Agreement?
A: Signed in 1972, the Shimla Agreement mandates that India and Pakistan resolve their differences bilaterally through peaceful means, without external intervention.
Q4. Has there been any international involvement in Kashmir recently?
A: While international bodies have called for peace, India maintains a strict stance against third-party mediation in the Kashmir issue.
Q5. What is Article 370 and why is it significant?
A: Article 370 granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir. Its revocation in 2019 integrated the region more closely with India, a move Pakistan opposed strongly.
Published on : May 13, 2025
Posted by : PAVAN