Abhishek Banerjee Advocates Focus on PoK in Talks with Pakistan
During a recent visit to Malaysia, Abhishek Banerjee of the Trinamool Congress asserted that future discussions with Pakistan should be strictly limited to the issue of reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). He highlighted the ongoing deadlock in talks and emphasized the need for a focused dialogue, especially in light of recent terrorist attacks. Banerjee's remarks came during an interaction with Indian expatriates, where he also condemned the lack of action from Pakistan regarding terrorism. He called for a united front against cross-border terrorism and encouraged expatriates to visit Kashmir to witness the situation firsthand.
| Jun 1, 2025, 18:06 IST
Call for Focused Dialogue on PoK
Kuala Lumpur. During a visit to Malaysia, Abhishek Banerjee, a leader from the Trinamool Congress, emphasized that future discussions with Pakistan should solely revolve around reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Speaking with Indian expatriates in Kuala Lumpur, Banerjee remarked, 'Despite changes in various governments, we have been engaging in talks with them (Pakistan) for decades. However, one thing remains unchanged - the deadlock with Pakistan.'
Banerjee, part of a delegation led by Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Kumar Jha, highlighted the tragic events of April 22, where 26 individuals were killed based solely on their religion. He urged the government to limit discussions with Pakistan to the issue of reclaiming PoK, warning that otherwise, terrorist attacks would persist.
India has made it clear that any dialogue with Pakistan will focus exclusively on terrorism and PoK. During the interaction with the expatriate community, members of Jha's delegation informed participants about India's firm stance against terrorism, particularly referencing the cowardly attacks that have plagued India for decades, including the recent incident in Pahalgam.
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The Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur posted on 'X', encouraging members of the expatriate community to share India's message across various platforms. The dialogue also included voices from the Malaysian Indian Muslim community, who openly condemned cross-border terrorist attacks.
Following the April 22 attack, Banerjee stated that India waited two weeks for Pakistan to take action and punish the perpetrators, but nothing occurred. He noted that after 14 days, India executed 'Operation Sindoor', destroying nine terrorist camps across the border. Banerjee questioned, 'We are presenting all evidence publicly. There are images on social media showing high-ranking Pakistani military officials attending the funerals of terrorists. What more evidence can India provide to the world?' He encouraged expatriates to spend three to four days in Kashmir when they visit India.