.jpg)
🇮🇳 India Withholds Signature Over SCO Tourism Map Discrepancy
India has declined to sign a key Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) tourism cooperation document after noticing significant territorial anomalies in the map used in the draft. The disputed document omitted Pahalgam—a well-known tourist site in Jammu and Kashmir—and included Balochistan, a region in Pakistan often referenced in sensitive geopolitical contexts
🗺️ Sovereignty Concerns Prompt Diplomatic Protest
According to officials present at the SCO meeting, India's delegation objected to the "inaccurate representation of Indian territory" and said such documents must adhere strictly to international norms and recognized boundaries. India asserted that Pahalgam is an integral part of its sovereign territory, and including Balochistan, a disputed and politically sensitive region, was unacceptable.
🧭 Tourism Document Not Binding Without Consensus
The SCO document aimed to promote cross-border tourism among member nations, but India’s refusal to sign renders the draft non-consensual, thereby nullifying any collective commitment. Other countries in the bloc, including China, Russia, and Central Asian states, have not yet officially commented on India’s stance.
📢 India’s Firm Stand on Cartographic Accuracy
India has consistently objected to maps or materials from multilateral platforms that either distort or misrepresent its borders. This latest move reflects New Delhi’s zero-tolerance policy on sovereignty-related matters at the diplomatic level.
✅ Conclusion
India’s decision to stand firm on territorial integrity at the SCO underscores its principled approach in international diplomacy. As regional alliances and narratives evolve, India continues to guard its geographic and political identity on the world stage.
❓ FAQs – India’s Refusal to Sign SCO Map Document
Q1. Why did India refuse to sign the SCO document?
A: India refused to sign the SCO tourism document due to inaccuracies in the map, specifically the omission of Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir) and inclusion of Balochistan, raising sovereignty concerns.
Q2. What is the significance of Pahalgam and Balochistan in this context?
A: Pahalgam is a popular tourist destination in Indian-administered Kashmir, while Balochistan is a politically sensitive region in Pakistan. Their respective inclusion and exclusion in the SCO map raised diplomatic red flags.
Q3. Is the SCO document legally binding?
A: No. Without India’s signature, the document does not reflect consensus and is not binding for all members.
Q4. Has India taken similar actions before?
A: Yes. India has consistently objected to incorrect maps or documents at international forums that misrepresent its territorial boundaries.
Q5. What happens next in the SCO proceedings?
A: India’s objection may prompt a review or redrafting of the map document. Diplomats from other SCO countries are expected to engage in further discussions.
published on 26th june
Publisher : SMITA
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed