New Delhi, India – British politician of Indian origin and member of the House of Lords, Lord Meghnad Desai, has called for India to take decisive action by reclaiming Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to resolve the protracted Kashmir issue. His remarks come in the aftermath of the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists.

A Stern Call for Action

In an interview with ANI, Lord Desai emphasised that taking over PoK is the only viable solution to the Kashmir problem. “I think the only way to solve the Kashmir problem now is for India to go and take it [Pakistan-occupied Kashmir] over. We have the accession letter of the king. So it belongs to us,” he stated.

Desai urged the Indian government to adopt a firm stance in response to the Pahalgam attack, which he described as one of the most shocking incidents in the region’s history. “I hope the Government of India really takes a very stern response to it and makes it quite clear that if this goes on, India will have to take over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir,” he added.

Hope for Resolution

Expressing optimism, Desai suggested that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to resolving the Kashmir issue once and for all. “I’m hoping that that’s what the Prime Minister was telling us all, that he intends to solve the problem once and for all,” he remarked.

Condemnation of the Pahalgam Attack

Meanwhile, the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) held a virtual conference to denounce the 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, labelled a “crime against humanity” by the UKPNP, resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives and left many others injured.

Participants of the conference extended their condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. The UKPNP’s strong condemnation underscores the global outrage over the incident.

Counter-Terrorism Efforts Intensify

In response to the attack, Indian security forces have launched intense counter-terrorism operations across multiple locations in Jammu and Kashmir. Sources familiar with the situation confirmed that efforts are underway to neutralise the perpetrators and prevent further incidents.

The Pahalgam attack has reignited discussions on the Kashmir dispute, with voices like Lord Desai’s advocating for decisive action. As counter-terrorism operations continue, the region remains under heightened security, reflecting the urgency of addressing the ongoing challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.