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India has termed the ‘so-called elections’ being held in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a sham and has appealed to global organisations to take action against the atrocities being committed on common citizens.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at the weekly press briefing on Tuesday, “These so-called local elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are a complete sham. The real situation there is one of public protests and brutal killings by Pakistani forces. Such hollow claims are divorced from reality.”

90 people have died since June.

Highlighting the consequences of Pakistan’s repressive policies to suppress protests in PoK, Jaiswal said, “The ongoing public demonstrations there have resulted in the deaths of 90 people and injuries to many others since June. The ruling establishment there has responded to public discontent with gunfire, communication blackouts, repression, and intimidation.”

Appeal to the world community to hold Pakistan accountable

He appealed to the global community to see clearly Pakistan’s hypocritical face. He added, “Pakistan is now creating the illusion of legitimacy through hollow electoral practices. It must be held accountable for this. The world community must see the reality behind Pakistan’s hypocritical preaching on human rights.”

It is noteworthy that the firing and repression by Pakistani security forces against protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has drawn worldwide attention. The protests, led by the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAC), began on June 5th.

Strong message on cross-border terrorism too

When asked about Pakistan’s activities promoting cross-border terrorism, Jaiswal said, “Everyone saw how we responded to them in ‘Operation Sindoor.’ We urge all countries to take strict action against cross-border terrorism and those who promote it. We also urge Pakistan to take strict action against cross-border terrorism and eliminate terrorist bases operating from its soil.”