In reference to demonstrations in the region recognized as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Union Home Minister Amit Shah voiced India’s claim over PoK and issued a warning regarding potential territorial acquisition from Pakistan. Aligned with analogous declarations made by other BJP figures, Shah invoked Jammu and Kashmir and article 370 during a gathering in West Bengal’s Serampore.
Shah articulated, “While tranquility has been reinstated in formerly turbulent Kashmir subsequent to the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir resonates with calls for liberation and demonstrations.” He elaborated, “Following the abrogation of Article 370 by the administration in 2019, peace has been restored to Kashmir. However, protests have erupted in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Previously, cries for liberation reverberated here; now, similar sentiments echo in PoK. Formerly, stones were hurled here; presently, they are cast in PoK.”
Directing criticism towards Congress leaders for their lack of support towards reclaiming PoK, Shah remarked, “Congress figures like Mani Shankar Aiyar opine against it, citing possession of nuclear weapons. Nevertheless, I affirm that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir rightfully belongs to India, and we shall assert our claim.” Shah delineated that the ongoing Lok Sabha elections signify a choice between “corrupt members of the INDI alliance and the upright statesman Narendra Modi, who, despite holding positions as Chief Minister and subsequently Prime Minister, has never faced allegations of financial misconduct.”
“West Bengal must determine whether it desires influx of migrants or implementation of the CAA for refugees. It must opt between endorsing jihad or advocating development,” he declared. Shah censured West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her opposition to the CAA and for “marching in support of infiltrators” to appease her electoral base.