India’s assertions

India has still not passed over the new political map issued by Pakistan last month which shows Kashmir as an integral part of the country. Despite its internal challenges particularly a burgeoning coronavirus crisis, India has continued its broadsides and belligerent assertions against Pakistan.

An incident occurred earlier this week when Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval walked out a virtual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) after objecting to Pakistan’s political map which was clearly visible in the background of his Pakistani counterpart Moeed Yousaf. The objection was dismissed and Doval walked away, bringing the regional body into disrepute.

Pakistan received support from China and Russia over the new map. China has its own border dispute with India in Ladakh region where the situation still remains tense. China does not recognise Arunachal Pradesh state, claiming that it a part of south Tibet. Even smaller countries like Nepal have issued a new political map showing an area claimed by India. The BJP-led regime is being humiliated at all global forum.

Pakistan has rejected assertions that the map includes parts of Indian territory but rather the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. The UN is holding the annual General Assembly this week and Kashmir is part of the agenda. India has failed in its efforts to remove the issue from being heard at the global forum.

The UNGA is a virtual affair this year but this will not affect its significance or dilute the issue. Prime Minister Imran Khan will address on September 25 through a video statement. We have already known that Kashmir will be part of his speech. It has been over a year since India’s unilateral action in occupied Kashmir and it cannot be forgotten.

We have then heard a statement from Kashmir minister Gandapur that Gilgit-Baltistan will become a separate province to gain full constitutional rights. This is surely going to trigger India due to its connection with Kashmir. Nevertheless, India is continuing its unwarranted assertions along with the ceasefire violations. India should realise that it has bigger problems to deal with and such actions are unlikely to make any significant difference.