Srinagar, Oct 20: BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Er. Gulam Ali Khatana on Tuesday strongly condemned the resolutions adopted at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Baghdad on October 17–18, describing the remarks against India as politically motivated and an interference in the country’s internal affairs.
Khatana accused Pakistan of using the OIC platform to advance its political agenda and malign India, questioning the organisation’s position on issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
He asserted that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were integral parts of India and said no international resolution or external intervention could alter the country’s position on its territorial integrity.
Highlighting developments in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370, Khatana said the region had witnessed a renewed focus on infrastructure, connectivity, tourism, investment and development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserved peace, progress and economic opportunities, rather than being drawn into what he described as Pakistan’s geopolitical agenda.
Khatana also criticised Pakistan over its human rights record in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), citing allegations of repression and the use of force against protesters. He said Pakistan should address concerns within areas under its control instead of raising allegations against India at international forums.
He maintained that the outstanding issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir included Pakistan vacating territories under its occupation and ending support for cross-border terrorism.
Reacting to the OIC’s remarks, including allegations concerning Islamophobia, Khatana said India had a long tradition of pluralism, coexistence and respect for different faiths. He contrasted this with allegations of minority persecution and sectarian violence in Pakistan.
Khatana urged the OIC to adopt a balanced approach and avoid becoming a platform for what he described as Pakistan-sponsored anti-India narratives. He said the organisation should respect the sovereignty of states and focus on dialogue, peace and international cooperation.
Reaffirming India’s position, Khatana said the country would not accept interference in its internal affairs and would continue to uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
