Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India could lead to nuclear war, both should hold talks: British Parliament

The British government should play an active and balanced role, the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee research report recommends, expressing concern over the deteriorating situation in occupied Kashmir

Staff reporter Daily Dawn + Dawn TV Report

London: The British Parliament has called for renewed diplomatic relations and talks between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, fearing a nuclear war, and highlighting human rights concerns, has urged the British government to play a more active and balanced role in resolving long-standing tensions in the region.

This was stated in a report published by the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, which is part of a wider study on Britain’s South Asia strategy.

The British Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee has warned in its new report on South Asia that the Kashmir dispute could turn into a nuclear war if meaningful talks are not initiated immediately between India and Pakistan.

The report expressed grave concern over India’s continued disregard for UN resolutions, human rights abuses in occupied Kashmir, and the abrogation of the special constitutional status of the region.

The report recommended that the UK exert diplomatic pressure on both New Delhi and Islamabad. The human rights situation in the region should be continuously monitored. Both sides should be encouraged to allow access to international observers. The British government should listen to the voices of Kashmiri refugees and respect their concerns.

The report said that India used a suspicious incident in occupied Kashmir as a justification for military action against Pakistan, which was described as a dangerous and irresponsible move.

The report further said that India is restricting democratic freedoms, suppressing the press, and restricting political freedoms.

According to the committee, in recent years, Pakistan has adopted a strategy of responsibility, patience, and staying within the bounds of international law despite tensions in the region.

The report emphasizes that the UK should use its historical ties and diplomatic influence to pave the way for peace and stability in the region, while at the same time recommending that the British government adopt a balanced policy based on the values of democracy, the rule of law and human rights.

The British government is expected to formally respond to the report in the next few months.