Union External Affairs Minister and BJP leader S Jaishankar has reasserted that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) is a part of India. Addressing an event titled ‘Vishwabandhu Bharat’ in Nashik early today, Mr. Jaishankar dismissed the notion of a ‘Lakshman Rekha’ limiting India’s actions. When asked about any potential reaction from China if India tried to integrate PoK, the minister said PoK is a part of India that had temporarily slipped away due to someone’s weakness.

Referring to the recent protests in Muzaffarabad, Mr. Jaishankar said residents of PoK have started raising questions regarding their suffering and mistreatment.

Talking about diplomatic challenges that India is facing with Canada, Mr. Jaishankar said freedom of speech cannot be used to support separatism and advocate violence, adding that Canada is supporting pro-Khalistani elements just to accommodate their vote bank.