India Addresses Key International Issues in Weekly Briefing

During a weekly press briefing, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed various international and regional matters, including violence in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, border talks with Bangladesh, the rescue of Indian sailors stranded near Oman, the situation in West Asia, and the issue of foreign nationals residing illegally in India.

India has strongly condemned the violent clashes between police and protesters in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Pakistan is attempting to divert attention from its internal failures and human rights violations by spreading false news and misleading videos. Reports of severe police brutality in the region have emerged, resulting in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries. India expressed hope that the international community will hold Pakistan accountable for its actions and human rights abuses.

Prior to the planned strike and protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, tensions escalated. Clashes between supporters of the banned United People’s Action Committee and security forces led to eleven deaths and around seventy injuries. The protests were against twelve reserved seats in regional assembly elections, which the demonstrators want abolished, as they believe candidates from these seats do not reside in Kashmir but in other parts of Pakistan.

According to police officials, protesters gathered outside a hospital morgue where the body of a worker killed by police gunfire was located. The commissioner of the Poonch region, Sardar Waheed Khan, reported that four police officers and a civilian were killed in the shooting, while six protesters also lost their lives in the ensuing response. Police chief Liaqat Malik noted that twenty-three security personnel and fifty protesters were injured, with thirty individuals arrested.

Shaukat Nawaz Mir, a leader of the United People’s Action Committee, accused the authorities of mass killings in Rawalkot and insisted on continuing the strike. However, the administration dismissed these claims, stating that actions were taken to restore law and order. Officials alleged that protesters used automatic weapons, petrol bombs, and other arms. It is noteworthy that the regional government had declared this organization banned under anti-terrorism laws and advised tourists to leave the area before June 9.

In addition, the briefing highlighted ongoing border security discussions between India and Bangladesh. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal mentioned that meetings at the level of the Directors General of the Border Security Force and the Bangladesh Border Guard are currently taking place, focusing on various significant issues between the two nations.

Regarding the stranded vessel MT Merivex near the coast of Oman, Jaiswal provided updates, stating that the ship had encountered difficulties close to the Omani coast with 24 Indian crew members onboard. The Indian embassy coordinated with Omani authorities to conduct a rescue operation, successfully bringing all Indian nationals to safety. India expressed gratitude to the Omani government for its assistance in this operation.

India also expressed concerns about escalating tensions in West Asia, emphasizing that de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy are the most effective means to restore peace in the region. Jaiswal reiterated India's commitment to the need for stability and peace. Additionally, he clarified that any foreign national residing illegally in India would face action according to Indian laws. Regarding the issue of individuals in no man's land, he mentioned that discussions between both parties are ongoing and this topic may be raised in future talks.

In another significant development related to foreign affairs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Kuwait's Amir Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. The two leaders discussed the current security situation and recent developments in detail. Modi reaffirmed India's strong support for Kuwait's sovereignty and territorial integrity, condemning attacks on the nation. He expressed deep concern over rising tensions in West Asia, stating that de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy are the most suitable paths for restoring peace and stability. Modi also thanked the Amir for his personal attention to the safety and welfare of the Indian community in Kuwait. This conversation occurred during a time of heightened uncertainty in West Asia, with discussions intensifying regarding a potential agreement between the U.S. and Iran. It is important to note that several individuals were injured in an Iranian attack on Kuwait, resulting in one Indian fatality.