Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, the self-styled “Prime Minister” of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), has criticised Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif over reported remarks questioning the identity of people from parts of the region.
Rathore accused Asif of creating unnecessary divisions and said the people of Jammu and Kashmir do not require validation of their identity from any political leader.
Reported Remarks Spark Controversy
The controversy followed media reports claiming that Khawaja Asif, during a television interview, said residents of Rawalakot and Mirpur were “not proper Kashmiris.”
The reported remarks triggered criticism from political leaders in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Note: Hindustan Times reported that it could not independently verify the comments attributed to Asif.
Rathore Demands an Apology
Responding on social media, Rathore said the identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir should not be questioned.
He alleged that senior political figures were creating divisions instead of promoting unity.
Rathore also criticised Asif’s subsequent clarification, in which the defence minister reportedly linked Kashmiri identity to years of struggle and sacrifice while referring to governance issues in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
According to Rathore, Asif should apologise for his original remarks instead of shifting attention to administrative matters.
India Responds Separately to Asif’s Statements
In a separate development earlier this week, India strongly criticised Khawaja Asif over his recent comments concerning bilateral tensions and water-related issues.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Pakistan’s statements were attempts to divert attention from its domestic challenges and alleged human rights concerns.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India rejected what he described as “fabricated claims” made by Pakistan.
He also reiterated India’s position that conditions in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir stem from Pakistan’s long-standing policies in the region.
