Government slams Pakistan for holding elections in Gilgit, Baltistan region

NEW DELHI: The Narendra Modi government on Tuesday slammed recent elections in Gilgit and Baltistan area and said the exercise is an attempt by Pakistan to deny the people of the region their political rights, drawing sharp reaction from Islamabad. “India’s position is well known. The entire state of Jammu & Kashmir, which includes the regions of Gilgit and Baltistan, is an integral part of India,” MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

Pakistan government sources, however, told ET that such statements are disappointing and not conducive for bilateral ties. “Elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, which are under Pakistan, are not new and happening for years now,” a Pakistani official said.

The election in Gilgit and Baltistan on June 8 is an attempt by Pakistan to camouflage its forcible and illegal occupation of the regions, according to the Modi government.

“We are concerned at the continued efforts by Pakistan to deny the people of the region their political rights, and the efforts being made to absorb these territories,” said Swarup.