In a firm diplomatic response, Pakistan has categorically rejected India's recent remarks concerning the upcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, terming them as outlandish and part of New Delhi's ongoing propaganda efforts.The Foreign Office of Pakistan issued a detailed statement on Friday, emphasising that India's claims are an attempt to mix facts with fiction.

Islamabad called upon India to vacate all illegally occupied territories in Jammu and Kashmir and reverse unilateral actions taken since August 5, 2019.

The statement highlighted that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains the oldest unresolved issue on the UN Security Council agenda, stemming from India's unlawful occupation in 1947.

Pakistan reiterated its stance that a lasting solution lies in implementing UNSC resolutions through a free and impartial plebiscite, allowing Kashmiris their right to self-determination.

The FO also drew attention to serious human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir by Indian forces, including impunity under draconian laws.

Gilgit-Baltistan is scheduled to hold elections for its fourth Legislative Assembly on June 7, following the 2009 Empowerment and Self-Governance Order that aimed to grant greater autonomy to the region.Pakistan urged India to allow neutral observers, human rights organisations, and international media access to IIOJK to assess the ground situation.This rebuttal came after India's foreign ministry protested against the GB polls.

Overall, the development underscores the persistent tensions between the two neighbouring countries over the Kashmir issue, with Pakistan maintaining a principled position rooted in international law and UN resolutions.