Turkey again Slams India over Kashmir at Parliamentary Budget Session

In a recent statement, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan once again raised the Kashmir issue, emphasizing Turkey’s stance on the ongoing dispute. His remarks, made during the presentation of Turkey’s 2026 Foreign Ministry budget, reiterate the need for India to resolve the issue through dialogue with Pakistan and in accordance with international law. This statement aligns with President Erdoğan’s consistent criticism of India’s policies in Kashmir, which he has raised at the United Nations General Assembly since 2019. Despite Turkey’s calls, India continues to ignore global appeals, persisting with its brutal repression in the region.

Turkey’s Consistent Position on Kashmir

Turkey has long maintained its critical stance on India’s occupation of Kashmir. Fidan’s remarks reaffirm Turkey’s commitment to Kashmir’s right to self-determination, aligning with Pakistan’s position. President Erdoğan has consistently highlighted Kashmir’s plight, urging India to respect international law and engage in meaningful dialogue with Pakistan. Turkey’s unwavering position on the issue reflects its broader foreign policy strategy of supporting oppressed Muslim populations.

◆ Call for Dialogue and Justice:
Turkey calls for India to engage in meaningful talks with Pakistan to resolve the dispute peacefully.
◆ Alignment with Pakistan’s Position:
Turkey’s stance mirrors Pakistan’s demand for self-determination for Kashmiris, emphasizing adherence to international law.
◆ Global Advocacy for Kashmir:
Turkey’s advocacy in global forums highlights its dedication to the rights of the Kashmiri people and challenges India’s oppressive policies.

India’s Denial of International Calls for Dialogue

India has repeatedly dismissed international calls for dialogue on Kashmir. Despite persistent criticism from Turkey and other global actors, India continues to reject any form of external mediation, choosing instead to maintain its military presence in the region. India’s response to the Kashmir issue has been marked by a lack of engagement and a consistent disregard for international law. This has only escalated the human rights violations in the region and further entrenched the suffering of the Kashmiri people.

◆ Refusal to Engage in Dialogue:
India continues to resist international efforts to mediate the Kashmir issue, opting for military control instead.
◆ Dismissal of Global Concerns:
Despite mounting international criticism, India has refused to acknowledge the severity of its actions in Kashmir.
◆ Perpetuating Repression:
India’s denial of the situation allows its military forces to continue their repressive policies without consequence.

Turkey’s Diplomatic Strategy: Advocating for Justice

Turkey’s consistent stance on Kashmir is part of its broader foreign policy efforts to support Muslim-majority countries and highlight global injustices. Through its vocal advocacy, Turkey has strengthened its diplomatic relations with nations that share concerns about India’s actions in Kashmir. By positioning itself as a leader in defending the rights of Muslims, Turkey amplifies its influence, especially in regions where Kashmir’s plight resonates deeply. Erdoğan’s leadership has further cemented Turkey’s role as a vocal critic of India’s policies.

◆ Strategic Diplomatic Positioning:
By supporting Kashmir, Turkey enhances its role in the Muslim world and strengthens diplomatic ties with nations sympathetic to the cause.
◆ A Leader in Muslim Diplomacy:
Turkey positions itself as a champion of Muslim rights, taking a strong stand against India’s repression in Kashmir.
◆ Influence in Global Forums:
Turkey’s continued focus on Kashmir bolsters its global profile as a defender of justice and human rights.

India’s Human Rights Violations in Kashmir

The human rights situation in Kashmir remains dire, with widespread violations by Indian forces. These violations include extrajudicial killings, torture, and the use of pellet guns to suppress protests. India’s use of pellet guns has caused permanent blindness in hundreds of people, while thousands have suffered severe injuries. The Indian government continues to use force to suppress the Kashmiris’ calls for freedom, while denying them basic human rights. Under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Indian forces operate with complete impunity, and victims of violence are left without legal recourse.

◆ Widespread Use of Pellet Guns:
India’s use of pellet guns has blinded hundreds and injured thousands, violating the rights of unarmed civilians.
◆ Systematic Torture and Killings:
India’s security forces engage in torture, forced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, while perpetrators face no accountability.
◆ Impunity Under AFSPA:
Indian forces operate with impunity, shielded by laws that grant them unrestricted power to act without fear of prosecution.

Turkey’s Ongoing Advocacy for Kashmir

Turkey remains firm in its support for Kashmir’s right to self-determination, continuing to call for a peaceful resolution. Despite India’s refusal to engage, Turkey’s persistent advocacy ensures that Kashmir remains a priority on the global diplomatic agenda. Turkey’s calls for justice challenge India’s occupation and highlight the need for international pressure to hold India accountable for its human rights violations. By speaking out consistently, Turkey reinforces the call for justice and a peaceful resolution based on dialogue and respect for Kashmir’s rights.

◆ Unwavering Support for Kashmir:
Turkey continues to advocate for Kashmir’s right to self-determination, calling for India to engage in dialogue.
◆ Raising Global Awareness:
Turkey’s diplomatic efforts keep Kashmir’s plight visible on the international stage, pushing for accountability.
◆ Challenging India’s Occupation:
Turkey’s continued criticism of India’s occupation calls for global action to end the suffering in Kashmir.

India’s ongoing repression in Kashmir, its rejection of international dialogue, and its persistent human rights violations require urgent attention from the global community. Turkey’s consistent advocacy for Kashmir emphasizes the need for greater international pressure on India to respect the rights of the Kashmiri people. The international community must stand with Kashmir, demanding an end to India’s military occupation and a peaceful resolution based on dialogue and justice. Only through global action can the suffering of the Kashmiri people be addressed, and their right to self-determination upheld.