Wed Mar 05 23:03:19 UTC 2025: ## Jaishankar: Pakistan’s Kashmir Vacancy Key to Resolving Kashmir Issue

**London, March 6, 2025** – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar asserted that the complete resolution of the Kashmir issue hinges on Pakistan’s relinquishment of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Speaking at Chatham House in London on March 5th, Mr. Jaishankar outlined the Indian government’s three-pronged approach to the issue: the revocation of Article 370, the restoration of economic growth and social justice in Jammu and Kashmir, and the holding of elections. He stated that the final step – the return of PoK – would definitively resolve the Kashmir dispute.

Mr. Jaishankar also addressed concerns regarding human rights in the region. While acknowledging the need for redressal in certain situations, he defended India’s human rights record, arguing that criticisms are often politically motivated and lack justification when compared to global standards. He emphasized the government’s focus on equitable distribution of benefits to all Indian citizens as a key element of its human rights policy. His comments follow a House of Commons debate on the same topic earlier that day. The Minister further contrasted what he termed “good politics” – focused on equal treatment of citizens – with the divisive nature of identity politics prevalent in some parts of the world.

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