The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized a joint letter written by over 100 prominent individuals from India and Pakistan to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The letter urged for an end to ongoing hostilities between the two nations, a move the BJP labeled as “hypocrisy.” BJP leaders suggested that those advocating for dialogue between India and Pakistan should address the United Nations regarding alleged human rights violations in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), following reported deaths during police actions in the region.
BJP leader Nirmal Singh emphasized the importance of good relations between neighbors but stressed the need for the right time and approach to enhance ties. Referring to recent incidents like the Pahalgam terror attack and Uri violence, Singh highlighted that dialogue cannot occur amidst terrorism and violence. He insisted that until Pakistan ceases its support for terrorism, meaningful discussions are not feasible.
The joint letter included Indian signatories such as Farooq Abdullah, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Mehbooba Mufti, Manoj Jha, and Humayun Kabir. Singh, a former Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister, criticized these Indian leaders for what he termed as their “hypocritical” stance on PoK issues. He accused them of indirectly supporting Pakistan’s position by remaining silent on alleged atrocities in the region.
Echoing Singh’s sentiments, BJP leader Ravinder Raina called for addressing human rights violations in PoK through international channels like the United Nations. Raina questioned the silence of leaders like Mehbooba Mufti and Farooq Abdullah on PoK’s situation, urging them to raise these concerns at global forums.
In defense of the joint letter, National Conference leader Tanvir Sadiq viewed it as a step towards countering those who perpetuate conflict between India and Pakistan. Sadiq emphasized the importance of empowering individuals advocating for a peaceful and united India. He expressed optimism about the potential for dialogue between the two nations and highlighted the shared responsibility of both India and Pakistan in fostering a conducive environment for talks.
