India Rejects Pakistan's Elections in Occupied Kashmir as Cosmetic Exercise
India's Stance on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir Elections
India has categorically dismissed the so-called assembly elections being conducted in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POK), labeling them as a mere 'cosmetic' effort by Pakistan to legitimize its illegal occupation. During a media briefing on Tuesday, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, which include areas under Pakistan's unlawful control, are integral parts of India.
Human Rights Violations and Local Movements
Jaiswal pointed out that these elections are an attempt by Pakistan to obscure its illegal occupation and to hide serious human rights violations occurring in the region. He noted that the widespread public movement in POK over the past two months is a direct result of Pakistan's exploitative economic policies, deprivation of fundamental rights, and administrative oppression.
India-China Relations Update
Regarding India-China relations, the spokesperson mentioned that an agreement reached in August 2025 allows for the resumption of border trade through the Lipulekh Pass, Shipki La Pass, and Nathu La. He also shared that Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held extensive discussions with senior officials from the Chinese Communist Party and the Foreign Ministry during his official visit to China on July 27-28. Both sides discussed advancing bilateral relations, enhancing trade and economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and increasing people-to-people contact, while also agreeing on the importance of maintaining peace and stability in border areas.
Future of SAARC and Regional Cooperation
On questions regarding the future of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India's long-standing support for robust regional cooperation. Without naming Pakistan, he stated that every country in South Asia is aware of which nation and its activities are hindering SAARC's progress. He emphasized that goodwill is essential for any regional cooperation.
Safety of Indian Sailors in the Black Sea
In response to inquiries about the safety of Indian sailors in the Black Sea region, the Ministry of External Affairs reported that six Indian vessels, with 125 Indian sailors on board, are currently present west of the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, 41 Indian sailors are deployed on foreign vessels in the same area. The Ministry confirmed that the Shipping Ministry is continuously monitoring the status of Indian ships and sailors, although the total number of Indian sailors operating in the Black Sea region is not immediately available.
Response to Pakistan's Statements and Nepal's PM Visit
When asked about Pakistan's reaction to Defense Minister Rajnath Singh's comments on Kargil Vijay Diwas, the spokesperson stated that India considers Pakistan's statement completely baseless and rejects it entirely. Regarding the visit of Nepal's Prime Minister to India, the Ministry confirmed that a formal invitation has been extended.
India's Position on Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Reiterating its stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India emphasized that a lasting and peaceful resolution can only be achieved through dialogue and diplomacy. The Ministry stated that India has consistently supported a solution through negotiations and will continue to adhere to this policy. In response to concerns about the situation of Indians in Gulf countries, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal mentioned that information has been presented in Parliament, and efforts are ongoing at the government level and through community organizations to ensure the welfare of every Indian expatriate.