Pak Army chief says Kashmir our jugular vein, triggers anger

Summary

The BJP also slammed General Sharif and asked the Pakistan government to ensure that such “provocative” and “aggressive” statements are avoided for peace in the region.

By: ENS & PTI

Pakistan Army chief General Raheel Sharif’s description of Kashmir as the “jugular vein” of his country has triggered angry condemnation in India, with both Congress and BJP reiterating that Kashmir remains an “inalienable” part of India.

Sharif on Wednesday claimed Kashmir was an internationally recognised dispute and added it should be resolved in accordance with the wishes of Kashmiris and in line with UNSC resolutions for lasting peace in the region.

“Matchless sacrifices offered by Kashmiris will not go in vain,” said General Sharif and added: “Pakistan Army is in favour of peace but is always ready to respond to any aggression in a befitting manner.”

His remark triggered angry reactions in India.

Union Finance Minister and Congress leader P Chidambaram hit out at him, saying, “Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and will remain so.”

“We reject that statement. This is no different from statements that were made by Pakistan in the past. I don’t think we need to take these statements seriously. I don’t think anyone in India or any responsible country in the world doubts that J&K has been, is and will always be an an integral part of India,” he said. He pointed out that J&K has witnessed elections which were held in a democratic and peaceful manner.

The BJP also slammed General Sharif and asked the Pakistan government to ensure that such “provocative” and “aggressive” statements are avoided for peace in the region.

Questioning the timing of the statement, BJP said Kashmir is an integral part of India and such statements amount to “gross interference” in this country. “The BJP condemns the provocative and aggressive comments made by General Sharif. It is for the civilian government of Pakistan to speak up in order that the region remains peaceful and help the development of all democracies around,” BJP spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman said

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Pak Army chief says Kashmir our jugular vein, triggers anger