British Member of Parliament, Bob Blackman, has made a significant and unequivocal statement. Regarding Jammu and Kashmir, reaffirming his long-standing support for India's position on the region. Blackman asserted that the entire Jammu and Kashmir, which explicitly includes Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), should rightfully be an integral part of India, while this declaration underscores his consistent advocacy for India's sovereignty and territorial integrity concerning the disputed region. His remarks highlight a deeply held conviction that has been maintained over several decades, emphasizing the historical and political context of Jammu and Kashmir's relationship with the Indian nation. Blackman's statement serves as a powerful international endorsement of India's stance, reinforcing the narrative of a unified and indivisible Jammu and Kashmir under Indian governance.
Decades-Old Demand for Article 370 Abrogation
Blackman further clarified that his demand for the abrogation of Article 370, a constitutional provision that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is a position he has held for more than three decades. He explicitly stated that this demand isn't linked to, nor was it influenced by, the significant decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in 2019 to revoke the article. Speaking at a high-tea event at the Constitutional Club in Jaipur, Blackman elaborated that his firm and unwavering stance on this matter originated in the early 1990s. This period, he highlighted, was particularly significant due to the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Kashmir Valley, an event that profoundly influenced his views and shaped his advocacy for the region's complete integration with India. He emphasized that his position is rooted in addressing historical injustices and ensuring equitable treatment. For all communities within Jammu and Kashmir, rather than being a reaction to recent political maneuvers.
Activism Following Kashmiri Pandit Exodus in 1992
Recalling his proactive engagement, Bob Blackman stated, "I didn't just talk about abrogating Article 370 when Prime Minister Modi included it in his manifesto and implemented it. I said this in 1992, when Kashmiri Pandits were expelled from Jammu and Kashmir. " He vividly recounted his efforts at that time to draw international attention to the profound injustice faced by the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community in Britain. Blackman organized a significant public meeting to inform people that it was fundamentally wrong and unjust for individuals to be driven out of their ancestral homes solely because of their religious identity. This historical context provides a deeper understanding of his consistent and principled stand on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating a long-term commitment to human rights and justice that predates much of the contemporary discourse.
Consistent Condemnation of Terrorism and Criticism of Pakistan
The British MP has consistently and vociferously condemned terrorism in the region, maintaining an unwavering stance against acts of violence. Also, he has been a prominent and vocal critic of Pakistan's illegal control over certain parts of Jammu and Kashmir, while blackman stated, "I've not only condemned the terrorism that has taken place, but I've also condemned Pakistan's illegal occupation of parts of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. " He reiterated his long-held belief that the entire princely state. Of Jammu and Kashmir should be reunited under India's legitimate governance. His statements reflect a strong disapproval of cross-border terrorism and an unequivocal stance against any illegal. Territorial claims, underscoring his conviction that Pakistan's actions contribute to regional instability and undermine peace efforts.
Condemnation of Pahalgam Attack and Call for UK Support
Blackman had strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 26 innocent people. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) at the time, the Conservative MP expressed his profound shock at the senseless loss of innocent lives in the attack, while while expressing relief that a degree of peace had since prevailed in the region, he cautioned that the situation remained fragile and susceptible to further instability. He urged the British government to stand firmly and unequivocally with India against. Terrorism, especially as New Delhi actively seeks closer security cooperation with Western nations. This appeal underscores his belief in the critical importance of international solidarity in combating terrorism and supporting India's strategic security interests in a volatile geopolitical landscape.
Labeling Pakistan as a 'Failed State'
Earlier in June, during the Operation Sindoor Global Outreach program, Bob Blackman had controversially characterized Pakistan as a 'failed state. ' He also raised pertinent questions about Pakistan's delicate civilian-military balance, stating that it was unclear. Whether the country was truly being run by its democratic institutions or by its powerful generals. Plus, Blackman asserted that terrorism was being actively promoted in India from Pakistani soil, posing a significant threat to regional peace and security. He emphasized the critical importance for the international community to stand in unwavering solidarity with India to effectively counter this persistent threat of terrorism and ensure stability in the region. These remarks highlight his deep concerns about Pakistan's internal stability and its alleged role in fostering cross-border terrorism.
