An Indian diplomat lodged a formal protest during a foreign affairs seminar in Dhaka after a presentation by a former Bangladesh diplomat displayed a map depicting Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) as part of Pakistan.

The incident occurred during a keynote address by former ambassador Tariq A Karim at a seminar organized by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies.

Second secretary (political & information) Pooja Kumari Jha, representing India, immediately raised objections when the map was shown, emphasizing that J&K is an integral and inalienable part of India.Jha's protest highlighted the sensitivity of the region's status, which remains a contentious issue between India and Pakistan.Karim defended the map as a 'representational purpose' tool, stating it did not reflect actual territorial boundaries.

The incident underscores the ongoing diplomatic tensions over J&K's sovereignty and the importance of accurate geopolitical representations in international forums.

The Indian high commission's swift response reflects its commitment to safeguarding national interests and ensuring that discussions about disputed territories are conducted with precision and respect for India's territorial integrity.