Pak wants OIC to probe LoC violations

Rezaul H Laskar

Seeking to again internationalise tensions along the Line of Control, Pakistan has called for an investigation into the recent incidents there by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

"We would welcome an OIC fact-finding mission to investigate the recent incidents of ceasefire violations," Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said addressing a meeting of the OIC contact group on Kashmir in Cairo Tuesday.

She reiterated that Pakistan is ready to work with the United Nations Military Observer Group for India and Pakistan to carry out an independent inquiry. Earlier, Pakistan's demand for a UNMOGIP probe had been foiled by India.

Clashes between Indian and Pakistani troops last month were among the worst violations of the 2003 ceasefire. One Indian soldier was beheaded while the body of another jawan was mutilated by Pakistan army men. Pakistan claimed three of its soldiers were killed in Indian firing.

Khar contended that there were "negative and hostile statements" coming from India during the ceasefire violations and that Pakistan chose to "exercise restraint".

Seeking that Kashmiris be associated with any dialogue process, Khar also urged India to initiate steps for an early resolution of the Kashmir dispute. Thanking the OIC for extending support to the Kashmir cause, she alleged that rights violations there were continuing.

The OIC secretary general reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to the Kashmir issue.

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