Jammu and Kashmir's ruling party, the National Conference, has strongly criticised Pakistan for its remarks against the Omar Abdullah-led government, saying Islamabad does not respect the democratic mandate of the people and is uncomfortable with the political process in the Union Territory.
The response came after Pakistan's Foreign Ministry accused the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir of being an accomplice in the "defacement" of the region's Muslim identity.
Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi also criticised the recent demolition of homes belonging to Gujjar tribals in Jammu, describing it as part of a broader effort to "Hinduise Kashmir". He said Pakistan was monitoring the situation and would raise the issue at international forums.
The controversy relates to an anti-encroachment drive carried out last month, during which several houses were demolished. The Jammu and Kashmir administration later ordered a probe into the demolitions.
The remarks mark the first time since the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status in 2019 and the formation of an elected government in 2024 that Pakistan has directly targeted the elected administration.
Responding to the allegations, National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq said Pakistan's statement revealed its discomfort with democratic processes, elections, and constitutional politics in Jammu and Kashmir.
"Their statement exposes a simple truth. Pakistan is uncomfortable with any political process in Jammu & Kashmir that is rooted in democracy, elections, and constitutional struggle. They neither respect the mandate of the people nor support their democratic aspirations," Sadiq said.
He added that Pakistan has, for decades, dismissed elected governments in Jammu and Kashmir as "puppets" and was again attacking elected representatives who are preparing a democratic and constitutional protest seeking restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees.
"We do not need certificates from Islamabad. Our demand for restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees arises from commitments made by the Government of India, affirmed before the Supreme Court, and supported by the overwhelming aspirations of the people of Jammu & Kashmir," Sadiq said.